FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Chazen Museum of Art is pleased to announce that J. H. Findorff and Son, Inc., has been awarded the contract to build the Chazen Museum of Art expansion. Findorff, a Madison-based company since 1890, counts among its projects the Overture Center for the Arts, as well as major campus buildings, including the Fluno Center, Grainger Hall, and the current Wisconsin Institutes for Discovery. Findorff’s experience with UW–Madison construction projects, reputation for fine craftsmanship, and dedication to the community are qualities that complement the vision for the new museum. The expanded Chazen will be centrally located at the intersection of the East Campus Mall and University Avenue. It is designed to be an open and inviting public space, with a dynamic outdoor plaza, glass-walled main lobby, and a third-floor gallery plan that unites both buildings with a dramatic bridge. The museum, built on the idea that art should be accessible, will be a centerpiece of the UW–Madison and a greatly enriched cultural resource for the city of Madison and the State of Wisconsin. The $43 million expansion is made possible by a $25 million lead gift from Simona and Jerry Chazen, as well as generous gifts from many private donors. The world-class design by Machado and Silvetti Associates and Continuum Architects + Planners adds approximately 81,000 square feet to the museum, nearly doubling gallery space for the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. New object study rooms, storage for artwork, a 160-seat auditorium for lectures and films, and a larger Museum Shop are also planned. The museum is expected to open in the fall of 2011.