Why is the Museum Currently Closed?
The demolition of the 1972 addition and the construction of the new North would cause significant disruptions and safety concerns for visitors. We don’t want our guests or our artworks to have a diminished experience or be put in harm’s way due to the construction.

Why is the expansion going to take three years?
While there is not a simple answer, there are many reasons for this duration. The decommissioning of the current building is a process that takes at least three to four months: the art must be removed from the walls and stored properly and staff must be moved to a new office location within the building. In addition our heating and cooling units must remain operable during the transition to protect the art at all times. To this end, in the first four months we will be building a new Central Utility Plant (CUP) near the loading docks at the back of the Museum to maintain temperature and humidity conditions during the project. This new structure will remain once we reopen. Construction for the three-story cantilever structure will take approximately two years and then it will be another four to five months of painting and reinstalling in the galleries for our grand opening.

How can I still be involved in the Speed?
There are many ways to stay involved with the Speed through membership and volunteering! Visit the volunteer page here to learn about volunteer opportunities or the membership page here to support the museum!

Where can I enjoy Speed programs while the Museum is closed?
Although the museum’s galleries and Art Sparks are closed to the public, we are dedicated to a continued program of outreach event in the community throughout the construction period. Click here to view our calendar of upcoming Speed About Town programs.

How do I schedule someone to speak to my group about the Museum?
Request a speaker from our speakers bureau to present at your next meeting or gathering by calling 502.637.6363 or emailing vcastle@speedmuseum.org.

What is Art Sparks?
Art Sparks is an award winning, interactive gallery for children and families to explore and create art through exciting activities and installations. Art Sparks also has many special family days with fun-filled events and summer art sessions for children. Check Family Programs on our on-line calendar for updates and sign up for email blasts, so you don’t miss out! For information, please call 502.634.2700. Though it is currently closed to the public while the museum is under construction, there are many family activities that will take place in the community. Visit our calendar page to visit us while we Speed About Town.

Are there benefits to becoming a museum member?
Absolutely! Members receive free admission and significant discounts over the general public for must-see exhibitions, concerts, a subscription to the award winning Members Magazine, and member privileges to the Frazier History Museum. For information, please call 502.634.2700 or click here for details.

Is the museum part of the University of Louisville?
The Speed Art Museum is a non-profit arts institution located adjacent to the University of Louisville Belknap campus. The museum is not directly affiliated with the university, though we have several partnerships with lectures and concerts throughout the year. The museum is a great resource for university students and offers student internships. All U of L students, faculty and staff with a valid university I.D. receive a complimentary museum membership.

Why is it called The Speed Art Museum?
The Speed was the vision of founder Hattie Bishop Speed, a great supporter of all arts, in memory of her husband James Breckinridge Speed. The museum opened in 1927.

Will the museum’s curators appraise art from private collections?
The museum’s curators do not appraise or estimate the value of art from private collections. Their role is to care for and exhibit the museum’s art collection and offer special traveling exhibitions. Local art dealers are a more appropriate resource for appraisals. A list of appraisers is available by calling the museum at 502.634.2700.

How does the Speed Art Museum comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act?
The Speed Art Museum welcomes people with special needs. The museum’s building is accessible to persons with disabilities. Designated parking for persons with disabilities is available in the parking garage and wheel chair access is available in the entrance located near the security office. TTD telephone access is available at 502.634.2706.