First opened in 1971 and expanded in 2005, the Walker Art Center campus, in downtown Minneapolis, is transforming once again. The first phase of renovations, including a new main entrance, lobby and outdoor entrance plaza, as well as new artwork, has been unveiled. All renovations are expected to be complete in June with the opening of the new Wurtele Upper Garden and reopening of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
The Walker Art Center features contemporary visual arts and design exhibitions, dance, theater and music performances, film screenings, lectures and classes. The campus has 11 exhibition galleries, a cinema, theater, indoor lounges, outdoor terraces and a cafe, bar and restaurant.
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, a joint project between the Walker and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, is an 11-acre public space currently across the street from the Walker building. Spoonbridge and Cherry, a fountain-sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen that has become an icon in the city, is displayed in the garden. The renovation project will connect the sculpture garden and the art center, making it one unified space.
The Walker Art Center’s indoor and outdoor event spaces can be used throughout the renovations. The 3,100-square-foot Skyline Room features a large, asymmetrical window, natural light and a view of city, and can accommodate up to 380 guests for a reception. Another room with a view is the Cityview Room, serving as a private restaurant for groups along with an outdoor terrace.
The Walker also offers several lounges, a conference room and an Art Lab that can be used for breakout sessions, smaller meetings or workshops. The on-site Walker Cinema can seat 340 people and the McGuire Theater has main floor and balcony seating for 385 guests.
Groups can also incorporate the center’s exhibitions, artwork and offerings with gallery tours, private screenings and even mini-golf on the Walker’s rooftop Skyline Mini Golf course.