The Wexner Center announced that their normal public hours will resume today, with the Heirloom Café back up and running as of 8am this morning. The arts center has been closed since Sunday, after a former security guard employee vandalized work in the After Picasso: 80 Contemporary Artists exhibit and committed suicide.
Wexner Center Director Sherri Geldin issued the following note yesterday to members, patrons and supporters about the incident and the reopening:
“Our profound thanks for the outpouring of support we have received following the tragedy that occurred at the Wexner Center last weekend. We are especially grateful for the consummate professionalism and bravery with which the University’s Department of Protective Services and the Columbus Police contained this shocking — though isolated — incident. The investigation continues but, regretfully, we have determined that our fall exhibition After Picasso: 80 Contemporary Artists will be closed for the remainder of its scheduled run.
Moments like these help us remember what matters. For us, that’s you: our loyal members, fans, friends, and patrons who help make the Wex such a unique place in the cultural landscape. A place that fuels artistic expression and propels creative discovery. A place that both celebrates and enhances the human spirit. And with the blessing of campus public safety officials, we’re ready to get back to that invigorating work once again.
Thanks to the phenomenal efforts of Ohio State leadership, the Wexner Center’s Board of Trustees, and my incomparable staff, the Wex will gratefully re-open our doors, beginning tomorrow.
This weekend, our much beloved Zoom program returns. Join us for our 12th annual celebration of low-cost family entertainment from around the world, starting this Thursday, December 3, with Takashi Murakami’s feature film debut, Jellyfish Eyes. Come experience dazzling films for all ages, along with interactive crafts and cardboard fort-making with visiting artist Julian McFaul.
December 3–6 also marks the Wexner Center’s Member Appreciation Days. For many years now we’ve set this time aside as a special moment to say thank you to our members with festive food and drink, special offers in our store and café, and season’s tidings from our staff. This year is no exception and, perhaps more than ever, we deeply appreciate your continued engagement and support. We look forward to personally welcoming you to the Wex.”
For more information, visit www.wexarts.org.