Smithsonian Set to Reopen Following Historic US Government Shutdown
Title: Smithsonian and National Gallery of Art Reopen After Historic Government Shutdown
The Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art (NGA), two of the most prominent federally funded cultural institutions in the United States, have announced their plans to reopen following the longest government shutdown in the nation’s history. This reopening, scheduled to commence from Friday, November 14, marks a significant moment for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts who have been awaiting access to these revered institutions.
Commencing on this Friday, two of the renowned Smithsonian museums, namely the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum along with its annex, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, will be open to the public. The remainder of the Smithsonian’s impressive collection of 21 museums and the National Zoo are slated to open doors on November 17. In alliance with this reopening, the NGA’s sculpture garden and West Building will greet visitors on Friday, soon to be followed by its entire campus and a long-anticipated exhibition of Aboriginal art on Saturday. The exhibition, titled “The Stars We Do Not See: Australian Indigenous Art,” was initially set to debut on October 18.
Despite the shutdown officially beginning at midnight on October 1, the Smithsonian Institution and NGA were able to remain operational for several days thereafter due to the utilization of prior-year funds, private trust funds, and federal appropriations. The Smithsonian’s museums and zoo remained accessible through October 12, while the NGA continued operations through October 4 using unexpired appropriations.
Nonetheless, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery had to postpone the exhibition linked with its prestigious Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition originally scheduled for October 18. This delay also affects the announcement of associated prizes, including a $25,000 award and a commission for the museum. A new date for these postponed activities has not yet been established. A cautionary letter to artists had foreshadowed potential installation delays due to the shutdown.
The operational hiatus resulted in the furlough of a significant number of staff members in both institutions. The Smithsonian anticipated furloughing 2,594 of its reported 3,860 staffers, retaining only those vital for securing life and property, including museum collections and zoo animals. Conversely, the NGA’s contingency plans outlined the retention of 488 out of 840 employees during the shutdown.
Although the reopening will usher in a return to normalcy, both institutions are assessing the shutdown’s lasting impacts. According to a spokesperson from the NGA, efforts are focused on resuming standard operations and warmly welcoming visitors back. However, further clarity from the Smithsonian regarding possible program delays remains pending.
This reopening is a celebrated occasion for both cultural institutions and their patrons. As these landmarks resume operations, they signify a return to accessibility for the millions who hold them dear, ensuring the continuation of art appreciation and cultural learning for all.