The Palmer Museum of Art has delayed its official reopening to January 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic, the museum announced this week.

Its director, Erin M. Coe, cited the risks of bringing visitors into the museum as a contributing factor to the delayed reopening.

“Though a difficult decision, opening in January is the most prudent course of action, especially in light of ongoing concerns surrounding the pandemic and bringing visitors to campus,” Coe said. “Extending our closure will provide us with the much-needed opportunity to make advances on other initiatives, including critical facility and collection projects. We look forward to reopening our doors to the public in early January.”

While it’s closed, the museum will continue working on rehousing its collection, performing renovations, and digitizing its collection.

During the prolonged closure, the Palmer will continue its virtual programming and promote new online content to keep art lovers occupied. Planned activities include Art After Hours events, talks and lectures, and online how-to videos. The museum will also provide tours through Zoom and virtually showcase its many galleries.

Updates on the closure and virtual programming will be made available on the Palmer’s website. Additionally, you can browse the museum’s full catalog of online programming here.