The project encompassed 18,800 sf of new
construction which included new Gallery space, collections storage area,
educational and office space as well as a new Great Hall space for large
gatherings and presentations. Renovation occurred in 7,000 sf of the
existing 16,600 sf Library.
In addition to enhancing
the visitor experience and showcasing the outstanding art collection under
the Foundation’s care, an appealing outdoor space for festivals and concerts
was created. The Canajoharie Library and Art Center was founded in 1924 both
as the town’s public library and a museum of American Art. The art gallery
enjoys a reputation as one of the finest small galleries in the United
States and has a permanent collection of more than 350 paintings and works
of sculpture highlighting the development of American Art from colonial
times through the mid-20th century. The collection includes works by Winslow
Homer, Andrew Wyeth, George Inness, Grandma Moses, Frederick Remington, John
Singer Sargent and Childe Hassaam.
Major sitework and landscaping installed to entice travelers on the
New York State Thruway to visit Canajoharie. A steel fence encloses the
Memorial Garden with access from the Museum as part of the visual
experience. A town square area with a flowing water feature accents the main
entrance. The parking lot was expanded and additional site lighting was
incorporated. The Gallery was closed from April 2005 through September 2007
to complete the work.
In June 2006, the Mohawk
Valley experienced catastrophic flooding. At this time, the Museum was at
60% completion. The new basement flooded, damaging newly installed
mechanical and elevator equipment. Delays ensued due to remediation efforts
and ordering of new equipment. Provisions were incorporated into the
project to protect the museum from future flooding.
