The Newark Museum of Art has unveiled a major transformation of its south wing with the completion of the newly renovated Learning and Engagement Center, a cornerstone of the museum’s mission to foster community, education, and cultural connection. Originally opened in 1990, the Learning and Engagement Center has long served as a hub for studio workshops, educational programming, and public events. The 2025 redesign reimagines the 6,000-square-foot space to meet the needs of modern visitors and expand the museum’s role as a vibrant cultural anchor in downtown Newark. Explore more local arts happenings at art & culture.
Designed by KSS Architects, the renovation aimed to create a fluid, open, and inviting environment that seamlessly integrates with the museum’s historic 116-year-old architecture. The project transforms both the upper and lower floors of the south wing into flexible spaces that accommodate interactive learning, hands-on workshops, lectures, and community gatherings. By opening the layout and enhancing natural light, the architects sought to cultivate an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, creativity, and exploration for visitors of all ages.
“The Learning and Engagement Center is the gateway to the arts campus, strengthening the connection between the Newark Museum of Art and the City of Newark as an inclusive cultural anchor,” said Jason Chmura, AIA, LEED, AP, Partner at KSS Architects. “This renovation elevates the museum experience, providing dynamic spaces for education, engagement, and social interaction while reflecting NMOA’s commitment to community accessibility and inclusivity.”
The project was a collaborative effort involving Phelps Construction and AKF Group, a member of WSP, and marks the beginning of a broader vision for downtown Newark’s arts district. Adjacent to the museum, the Museum Parc project is set to bring 250 mixed-income rental units across two buildings, featuring more than 2,300 square feet of ground-floor retail space. The development, a partnership among LMXD, MSquared, and MCI Collective, is slated for completion in 2027, further enhancing the area’s status as a vibrant, creative hub.
Shirley Thomas Ward, Deputy Director of Learning & Engagement at NMOA, emphasized the community-focused benefits of the renovation: “Completing the South Wing renovation is a major move for us. It’s a game-changer in making the museum a truly welcoming and accessible space for the whole community. Our museum has always championed powerful art and storytelling, and now we’ve added a bold, versatile space where visitors can come together to learn, explore, and connect.”
Visitors to the newly renovated Learning and Engagement Center will discover a variety of reimagined spaces, from classrooms equipped for hands-on artistic instruction to open areas for lectures, interactive exhibits, and public events. The museum’s ongoing commitment to community engagement is reflected not only in the physical space but also in expanded programming designed to reach residents across Newark and the surrounding region.
This renovation represents a pivotal step in the museum’s vision to create a cohesive downtown arts campus, integrating indoor and outdoor public spaces, green areas, and a sculpture garden. By linking artistic experiences with accessible educational opportunities, the Newark Museum of Art continues to solidify its position as a cultural anchor for the city and a dynamic destination for visitors seeking meaningful engagement with art and culture.
The Learning and Engagement Center is now fully open to the public, offering a bold new environment that invites Newark residents and visitors alike to experience art, creativity, and community in an inspiring setting. For more on the museum and other local cultural initiatives, explore the latest in art & culture.
