The Wadsworth has restored its Wednesday public hours for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, funded by a $1 million, five-year grant from Travelers.
The grant allows America’s oldest public art museum, at 600 Main St. in Hartford, to expand from four to five days of public access per week. The museum is now open Wednesday through Sunday.
“We are deeply grateful to Travelers for this transformational gift, allowing us to open our doors to the public one more day every week,” said Allison Blais, president and CEO of The Wadsworth. “An additional day means thousands more opportunities each year for students, families and community members to experience the museum’s renowned collections, exhibitions and programs.”
Like many cultural institutions, The Wadsworth curtailed public hours during the pandemic. In recent years, the museum — formerly known as the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art — has undergone a comprehensive rebrand and renewed push to reengage audiences and the surrounding community.
Lisa B. Walker, president and CEO of the Travelers Foundation and vice president of community relations at Travelers, said the company has maintained a longstanding relationship with the museum.
“We’ve been a longtime partner of The Wadsworth, and with our Hartford offices right across the street, we witness firsthand the incredible impact this treasured institution has on our community,” Walker said. “We’re thrilled that more people in the Hartford community and beyond will now be able to experience the museum’s world-class art and engaging cultural programs.”
In addition to its expanded schedule, The Wadsworth offers year-round talks, performances, lectures and workshops. The museum also provides several free admission opportunities, including free admission for Hartford residents through the Wadsworth Welcome registration program. General admission ranges from $10 to $22, with discounts for members, students, youth and seniors.
Wednesday through Friday hours are noon to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
