A major Chicago art museum has been awarded a $3.5 million grant to help tackle the issues presented by the COVID 19 pandemic.
The National Museum of Mexican Art has announced the four-year grant has been received from the America Cultural Treasures program. The scheme is exclusive for US art organisations, with the Museum being the only institution awarded in Illinois.
The substantial grant is the largest given in the free Museum’s 33-year history, which also finds itself as the only US museum dedicated Mexican art and heritage.
Supported by the Ford Foundation, the program is offering a total of $150 million in funds to kick-start financial recovery, implementing virtual platforms and adjust COVID safe operations going forward. The grants range from $1 million to $6 million with 20 institutions around the US being awarded with funds.
Due to continuing safety issues surrounding COVID 19 the Museum’s doors had remained closed, but has managed to successfully offer captivating art exhibitions, including Día de los Muertos which pays homage to those who died through the pandemic virtually.
It’s not yet known when the visitor experience, which usually welcomes 150,000 visitors a year, will reopen the facility to in-person guests, but the grant is expected to massively support the organisation remaining on its feet during the uncertain times.
Commenting on the fund, Carlos Tortolero, Founder and President of the National Musuem of Art said: “We are thrilled to receive this funding as an acknowledgment of the contributions of communities of colour.
“The Museum staff work tirelessly to bring forth the rich stories, past and present, giving voice to the Mexican community throughout the country and the world.”
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