Tue 6/7 @ 10AM-9PM
The Cleveland Museum of Art opened its doors on Wednesday June 7, 1916. It was during the depths of the catastrophically costly World War I, but it was a period of birth and ferment for the arts in Cleveland: within a three-year period, CMA, the Cleveland Play House, Karamu and the Cleveland Orchestra were all born.
A lot has changed since then. The museum has grown immensely, with new wings and new acquisitions (and then the removal of new wings!). Always noted for its outstanding Asian art collection, in recent years it’s added to its photography holdings and acquired a respectable modern art collection, once a weakness. One thing that hasn’t changed: it’s one of the few world-class art museums that’s still free.
So of course, it’s holding a free party to celebrate 100 years to the day of its opening. They’ll roll out a red carpet at the entrance (no, you don’t have to wear a tux or a gown); there will be a pop-up restaurant in the atrium and live music in the galleries. Pierre’s ice cream has created a special flavor called Sundae at the Museum, and there will be a one-day only installation of art-inspired cakes created by local bakers. And entry to the museum’s current special exhibition, Pharoah: King of Ancient Egypt, is free (no advance ticket reservations so get in line!)
Studio Go will be there with the art-making van; in fact, there’ll be all kinds of hands-on creative opportunities going on all afternoon. Stop and listen to a gallery talk or join a guided tour. And be there at 2pm for the official commemoration with remarks by CMA director/president Bill Griswold and a chance to be in the centennial group photo. Cake and ice cream will be served following the ceremony! The museum will be open until 9pm for this special day.
clevelandart.org/official-cma-birthday-party