As the Bronx Museum of the Arts marks its 50th anniversary, it embarks on an exciting transformation. The $33 million renovation project aims to enhance the museum’s role as a cultural anchor, creating a more accessible and dynamic experience for the Bronx community. Klaudio Rodriguez, Executive Director of the museum, shared his vision for the museum’s future and the changes that will shape its next chapter.

A Vision for the Bronx, By the Bronx

The driving force behind the renovation, according to Rodriguez, is a commitment to the museum’s core mission.
“This renovation goes beyond just updating the building—it’s about creating a space that truly represents the people of the Bronx and embodies our community’s spirit,” he said thoughtfully. “From day one, we’ve always been a museum for the Bronx, about the Bronx, and by the Bronx. This is our opportunity to make sure every part of this space reflects that commitment, from the design to the programming.”

Rodriguez sees the renovation as a natural evolution of the museum’s role within the borough. From its origins in the Bronx County Courthouse to its current home on the Grand Concourse, the museum has continuously adapted to meet the needs of its community. With the renovation, he aims to ensure the museum remains a vital cultural hub for generations to come.

Marvel Architects’ Vision of Openness

The redesign, led by Marvel Architects, will feature a new, more prominent entrance at the corner of Grand Concourse and 165th Street. This change, according to Rodriguez, is about more than just visibility; it’s about forging a deeper connection between the museum and the vibrant life outside its walls.

“We want to create a museum that’s not just a place you visit, but a part of the community. Our goal is to make the museum feel integrated into everyday life, breaking down barriers between the street and the art inside,” Rodriguez explained. “The museum should reflect the energy of the Bronx—it’s alive, it’s dynamic, and it’s full of stories waiting to be shared.”

The renovation will also expand the museum’s gallery space, making room for more exhibitions, community programs, and educational opportunities. With sustainable features like rooftop solar panels and energy-efficient systems, the design will align with New York City’s green initiatives, creating an eco-conscious and community-centered space.

Art as a Pathway to Connection

Rodriguez emphasized that the museum’s role goes beyond being a venue for art; it’s about fostering conversation, understanding, and connection.
“Art has the power to bring people together, to bridge divides and open new ways of thinking,” he said. “We want our exhibitions to resonate not only with the Bronx community but with people from all walks of life. The museum should be a place where diverse voices and perspectives can come together.”

The current exhibition, ‘Jamel Shabazz: Eyes on the Street,’ captures the essence of this approach. Shabazz’s photography, which highlights the everyday lives of Bronx residents, speaks directly to the community’s spirit and resilience.

“Shabazz’s work is incredibly meaningful to us,” Rodriguez reflected. “It’s a celebration of the Bronx in all its complexity—its people, its neighborhoods, and the cultural richness that defines this place. His images are a visual testament to the vitality and uniqueness of our community.”

Building a Legacy for the Future

Looking ahead, Rodriguez is enthusiastic about what the completed renovation will bring.
“This renovation isn’t just about modernizing the building—it’s about creating a space that will serve our community for decades,” he said, his tone filled with optimism. “We want to make sure that the Bronx Museum continues to be a place where people of all ages can learn, find inspiration, and feel a sense of belonging.”

While construction is set to continue until 2026, the museum will remain open throughout the renovation, with exhibitions and educational programs available in its northern gallery spaces.

A Place for All Bronxites

Rodriguez concluded by reaffirming his vision for the museum.
“At its heart, the Bronx Museum has always been about the people we serve. We are rooted in this community, and we’re here to make sure that the museum reflects the diversity, creativity, and energy of the Bronx. This renovation is our way of ensuring that the museum not only adapts to the times but remains a place where everyone feels welcomed, seen, and valued.”

As the renovation progresses and the museum’s doors open once again in 2026, the Bronx Museum will stand as a beacon of creativity, culture, and connection—an enduring testament to the borough’s past, present, and future.

Visit and Be Part of the Transformation

The Bronx Museum invites everyone to experience its current exhibitions and stay updated on the progress of its renovation. With free admission, the museum continues to be an accessible and inclusive space for all.

For more information, visit bronxmuseum.org.

As the Bronx Museum of the Arts marks its 50th anniversary, it embarks on an exciting transformation. The $33 million renovation project aims to enhance the museum’s role as a cultural anchor, creating a more accessible and dynamic experience for the Bronx community. Klaudio Rodriguez, Executive Director of the museum, shared his vision for the museum’s future and the changes that will shape its next chapter.

A Vision for the Bronx, By the Bronx

The driving force behind the renovation, according to Rodriguez, is a commitment to the museum’s core mission.
“This renovation goes beyond just updating the building—it’s about creating a space that truly represents the people of the Bronx and embodies our community’s spirit,” he said thoughtfully. “From day one, we’ve always been a museum for the Bronx, about the Bronx, and by the Bronx. This is our opportunity to make sure every part of this space reflects that commitment, from the design to the programming.”

Rodriguez sees the renovation as a natural evolution of the museum’s role within the borough. From its origins in the Bronx County Courthouse to its current home on the Grand Concourse, the museum has continuously adapted to meet the needs of its community. With the renovation, he aims to ensure the museum remains a vital cultural hub for generations to come.

Marvel Architects’ Vision of Openness

The redesign, led by Marvel Architects, will feature a new, more prominent entrance at the corner of Grand Concourse and 165th Street. This change, according to Rodriguez, is about more than just visibility; it’s about forging a deeper connection between the museum and the vibrant life outside its walls.

“We want to create a museum that’s not just a place you visit, but a part of the community. Our goal is to make the museum feel integrated into everyday life, breaking down barriers between the street and the art inside,” Rodriguez explained. “The museum should reflect the energy of the Bronx—it’s alive, it’s dynamic, and it’s full of stories waiting to be shared.”

The renovation will also expand the museum’s gallery space, making room for more exhibitions, community programs, and educational opportunities. With sustainable features like rooftop solar panels and energy-efficient systems, the design will align with New York City’s green initiatives, creating an eco-conscious and community-centered space.

Art as a Pathway to Connection

Rodriguez emphasized that the museum’s role goes beyond being a venue for art; it’s about fostering conversation, understanding, and connection.
“Art has the power to bring people together, to bridge divides and open new ways of thinking,” he said. “We want our exhibitions to resonate not only with the Bronx community but with people from all walks of life. The museum should be a place where diverse voices and perspectives can come together.”

The current exhibition, ‘Jamel Shabazz: Eyes on the Street,’ captures the essence of this approach. Shabazz’s photography, which highlights the everyday lives of Bronx residents, speaks directly to the community’s spirit and resilience.

“Shabazz’s work is incredibly meaningful to us,” Rodriguez reflected. “It’s a celebration of the Bronx in all its complexity—its people, its neighborhoods, and the cultural richness that defines this place. His images are a visual testament to the vitality and uniqueness of our community.”

Building a Legacy for the Future

Looking ahead, Rodriguez is enthusiastic about what the completed renovation will bring.
“This renovation isn’t just about modernizing the building—it’s about creating a space that will serve our community for decades,” he said, his tone filled with optimism. “We want to make sure that the Bronx Museum continues to be a place where people of all ages can learn, find inspiration, and feel a sense of belonging.”

While construction is set to continue until 2026, the museum will remain open throughout the renovation, with exhibitions and educational programs available in its northern gallery spaces.

A Place for All Bronxites

Rodriguez concluded by reaffirming his vision for the museum.
“At its heart, the Bronx Museum has always been about the people we serve. We are rooted in this community, and we’re here to make sure that the museum reflects the diversity, creativity, and energy of the Bronx. This renovation is our way of ensuring that the museum not only adapts to the times but remains a place where everyone feels welcomed, seen, and valued.”

As the renovation progresses and the museum’s doors open once again in 2026, the Bronx Museum will stand as a beacon of creativity, culture, and connection—an enduring testament to the borough’s past, present, and future.

Visit and Be Part of the Transformation

The Bronx Museum invites everyone to experience its current exhibitions and stay updated on the progress of its renovation. With free admission, the museum continues to be an accessible and inclusive space for all.

For more information, visit bronxmuseum.org.