ClarkNEXT
The Clark is in the final phase of its campus expansion program, which includes construction of a new Visitor, Exhibition, and Conference Center designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Tadao Ando, renovation of both the original museum building and the Manton Research Center, and a sweeping new landscape plan.
This project represents a vision for the future that allows for physical expansion, improves circulation, and dramatically expands the public use of the Clark's 140- acre campus.
Construction is currently underway on both the new Visitor, Exhibition, and Conference Center and the museum building. Renovation work on the Manton Research Center will begin in summer 2013 with the installation of a new fire suppression system in the Clark's library. This work will require the library to close temporarily from June 1 through September 3, 2013.
Please click on the links below to find out more about each facet of the current expansion program and what these facilities will offer to our visitors.
Visitor, Exhibition, and Conference Center
Since its opening in 1955, the quality of its collections, the depth of its scholarly and public programs, and the natural beauty of its setting have made the Clark a unique institution and a favorite destination. With its dual mission as both an art museum and center for research and higher education, the Clark is known as one of the world’s most vibrant centers for exploring issues in the visual arts. As its programs and global impact have grown over the last decades, the Clark’s facilities were increasingly taxed to provide the space and services necessary to meet the demands of these initiatives and future goals.
In 2001 the Clark approved a master plan developed by Cooper, Robertson & Partners that dramatically reconceived the Clark campus. Architect Tadao Ando and landscape architects Reed Hilderbrand Associates were selected to articulate this campus plan, including pivotal decisions to remove an existing maintenance building and relocate the main parking areas in order to make way for significant landscape and architectural changes. Architect Annabelle Selldorf was commissioned to renovate the museum building and the Manton Research Center (built in 1973) in a way that respects the original architecture, repurposes spaces to better serve both the museum and research and academic programs, and enhances the visitor experience.
The first phase of the campus expansion program was completed in 2008 with the opening of Stone Hill Center, a new building affording panoramic views from its location on a previously undeveloped portion of the campus. The facility has been cited for its stunning gallery spaces, community meeting rooms, outdoor café, and walking paths. Additionally it houses the state-of-the-art facility for the Williamstown Art Conservation Center. In summer 2010 work began on the infrastructure for the next phase of the project, the construction and renovation of the main campus buildings and grounds. Work on a new loading dock, food service and core mechanical facilities, and other back-of-house spaces was completed in 2012.
We look forward to sharing the next chapter of the Clark’s history with you!
