The Harvard Art Museums have recently made a significant announcement that is set to revolutionise public access to its vast collections, exhibitions, and research. In a press release issued on Friday, the museum revealed its new policy of free admission, a move hailed by administrators as a groundbreaking expansion of accessibility. What is perhaps most remarkable is that this policy is not a temporary measure but a permanent fixture, ensuring that art truly becomes accessible to all.
University president Lawrence S. Bacow expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, “Art is for everyone, and the Harvard Art Museums will now be free to all visitors.” Bacow emphasised the museum’s commitment to providing an opportunity for every visitor to engage with the extraordinary collections under its care. This momentous decision brings the Harvard Art Museums in line with most university-affiliated museums, which have traditionally offered free admission to all visitors.
According to a statement from Bacow’s office, it has taken several years for the university to secure the necessary funds to support the costly maintenance of the collection and the salaries of the museum staff. However, through a generous contribution from the Estate of David Rockefeller, the endowment needed to sustain this ambitious initiative has been secured.
The Harvard Art Museums, following a major renovation in 2015, serve as vital hubs for research and conservation. Their collection encompasses a broad spectrum of art, ranging from Ancient Greece to Postwar America. Among the notable highlights are a series of Mark Rothko murals commissioned by Harvard in the 1960s, materials from Bruce Nauman’s studio, and an impressive assemblage of drawings by Netherlandish, Dutch, and Flemish Masters. These treasures not only provide invaluable resources for scholarly pursuits but also offer a source of inspiration and enjoyment for the general public.
Martha Tedeschi, the Director of the Harvard Art Museums, shared her observations on the impact of the museum’s efforts to lower admission barriers. In an interview with WBUR, she noted, “We are seeing that lowering that barrier of admission has made a difference [in reaching the Greater Boston community].” Tedeschi expressed excitement about the complete elimination of admission fees, envisioning a future where the local audience increasingly feels a strong sense of belonging within the museum’s walls. The museum has already been experimenting with this approach for approximately a year and a half, and the positive changes it has brought about have been a source of great anticipation and enthusiasm.
The decision to offer free admission to the Harvard Art Museums marks a significant milestone in the institution’s history. By removing financial barriers, the museum aims to foster a more inclusive and engaged community. Visitors, regardless of their backgrounds or economic circumstances, will now have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich artistic heritage on display. This commitment to accessibility reflects a broader cultural shift in recognising the transformative power of art and the importance of making it accessible to all.
Feature image: A view of the newly Harvard Art Museums in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Courtesy: Paul Marotta/Getty Images
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