Akron Art Museum offers free admission to UA students, faculty and staff
The Akron Art Museum and The University of Akron are joining forces to make art more accessible to college students, faculty and staff. Beginning Aug. 29, and continuing the entire 2019-20 academic year, general admission to the museum is free for UA students as well as faculty and staff members with a valid Zip Card.
VIDEO: Zippy joins students at the museum
At the heart of the partnership is the belief in the importance of access to meaningful art and educational experiences as a means to enrich quality of life, catalyze creative thinking and encourage a greater sense of community. The museum, located at One South High St., near campus, will host a special welcome event on Thursday, Aug. 29, where Zip Card holders can take advantage of 20% off all café and museum shop purchases, in addition to free admission from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Shared commitment to arts and education
“The University of Akron partnership with the Akron Art Museum provides full access to a world-class modern and contemporary art collection, as well as engaging public programs and events. I can’t think of a better way to collectively join forces to strengthen our commitment to the arts and education in our community,” said Mark Masuoka, director of the Akron Art Museum.
The museum and UA are working together to continue the momentum of the kickoff, with museum events being planned for the entire academic year to engage the UA community.
Dr. John Green, interim president of UA, remarked, “One goal of an academic institution is to enrich the lives of its students. This partnership with the Akron Art Museum will offer UA students, faculty and staff the chance to expand their artistic view and grow their love for art, culture and community.”
In addition to the museum collection galleries, which contain significant works by Andy Warhol, Ohio-native Jenny Holzer, Frank Stella, Mickalene Thomas and many others, UA visitors will have access to stunning temporary exhibitions, including “Dread & Delight: Fairy Tales in an Anxious World” and, coming in October 2019, “Open World: Video Games and Contemporary Art.” An array of museum events, from artist talks to music concerts are also available for UA visitors to enjoy.
About the Akron Art Museum
The Akron Art Museum, dedicated to enriching lives through modern and contemporary art, showcases regional, national and international art created since 1850. The museum’s collection is presented in a facility designed by Viennese architectural firm Coop Himmelb(l)au and includes more than 5,000 works of art, with a strong focus on contemporary painting, sculpture and photography. Nearly a dozen exhibitions each year present prominent artists in various media including painting, sculpture, photography, video, design and glass.
In addition to its ever-changing collection and exhibitions, the museum offers many opportunities to Live Creative through programs that include films and video, lectures, workshops, tours and concerts. Visit the Akron Art Museum online for more information.
Media contact: Cristine Boyd, 330-972-6476 or cboyd @uakron.edu.