The Museum was founded in 1948, and we’ve had many wonderful years of growth. But we have been updating inside and out, to build on our past and move forward so that we may thrive far into the 21st century.
Big changes happened in the Museum building during our major expansion and renovation project right in the heart of downtown Asheville. Now that the construction is complete and the Museum has reopened, we invite you into our new space to experience our fresh approaches, additions to the Collection, exhibitions, and educational programs.
About the New Museum Building Project
Utilizing the current building footprint of the Museum, this environmentally friendly project includes the historic preservation of the Museum’s current North Wing (the 1926 Pack Library building), renovation of prior Museum spaces, and new construction to transform current disparate spaces into a cohesive, coherent, and inviting Museum. Read more about the new building.
The Construction Process
Visit our Facebook gallery to see photos of the construction process.
Below is a brief time lapse video of some of the demolition and rebuilding work that occurred at 2 South Pack Square in 2018. Check out additional time lapse videos of the construction project on our YouTube channel.
Schedule and Plan
The Museum’s expansion and renovation project has consisted of different carefully planned phases: renovation/preservation of the North Wing (1926 Pack Library building); demolition work on the Museum’s East Wing and “core”; and the construction of the new building and glass façade. The Museum is nearing the end of the final phase!
How Is the Museum Paying for the Expansion?
The ArtWORKS for Asheville Capital Campaign has been very successful due to the generosity of our board of trustees, close supporters, government, foundation, and corporate supporters from within Buncombe County, North Carolina, and nationally. Read more about our Capital Campaign effort.
Get Involved
The Museum’s staff and board of trustees want to hear from you. There are many ways that you can become involved and be a part of this extraordinary community endeavor. Give us a call at 828.253.3227 x114 to connect.