Akron Art Museum to Reopen Historic 1899 Building Following $12.5 Million Transformation

Published: Aug 14, 2026 - 9:20 a.m.

By Joan Elloway-Nash

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AKRON, OHIO — After more than a year of construction and a $12.5 million investment, the Akron Art Museum is set to reopen its historic 1899 Building to the public on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. This project represents the most significant transformation of the museum's downtown campus since the 2007 expansion, effectively reimagining the 125-year-old structure for a new century of visitors. The building has been formally renamed the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Building. According to museum records, the renovation added 2,152 square feet of gallery space and a nearly 1,000-square-foot classroom designed specifically for hands-on learning. The project also created new areas for digital and time-based art, updated the restrooms, and added a family care room to improve the visitor experience. Jon A. Fiume, the John S. Knight Director and CEO of the museum, said the transformation allows the institution to honor Akron's history while rethinking the possibilities of the space. The move prioritizes community connection and creativity. The building originally served as the city's main post office before the museum took up residence there in 1981. One of the most anticipated additions is the J.M. Smucker Co. Idea Machine, an interactive space designed to encourage visitors of all ages to experiment with art making. The debut installation in this space is by CHIAOZZA, the studio of artists Adam Frezza and Terri Chiao, who created an environment that evolves as people interact with it. The museum's new layout also allows for more ambitious exhibitions. In the Tony and Susie Paparella Galleries, a show titled The Surrealist Impulse features prominent artists such as Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and René Magritte. Meanwhile, the McDowell Family Galleries will host a massive immersive video installation by Shana Moulton. Titled Meta/Physical Therapy, the exhibit uses eight synchronized projections to follow the artist's alter ego through a narrative exploring wellness culture and anxiety. The project was completed by a team that included Perspectus Architecture, Summit Construction, and Process Creative Studios. Funding came through the museum's Create the Future campaign, which saw significant contributions from the State of Ohio and the Knight Foundation. Opening week begins with a "First Look" event on September 23, which coincides with the Akron Garden Club's floral show, Art Blooms 2026. On Thursday, September 24, the museum will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. before opening its doors for a free community celebration from noon until 9 p.m. This event will feature music, food, and family activities throughout the new galleries. The museum will be closed to the public from September 14 through September 22 as staff prepares the final touches for the grand reopening. Regular admission is $15 for adults, but the museum remains free to the public every Thursday. Runners participating in the Akron Marathon can also receive free admission from September 25 through September 27 by presenting their race bib at the front desk. For more information on the opening schedule, visit AkronArtMuseum.org. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.