Ann Katherine Brown Permanent Collection Gallery opens

The Bakersfield Museum of Art now has a permanent collection gallery.

The Ann Katherine Brown Permanent Collection Gallery opened February 22 and will house approximately 20 pieces from the Museum’s permanent collection.  Named to honor a longtime museum volunteer and board member who passed away in 2007, the 300 square- foot space is located on the west end of the museum building.

Over $45,000 was raised for the project which also included completion of the Museum vault space and framing and repair of several pieces of art. Artwork on display will rotate every four to six months. Several new pieces of art were also donated for the gallery, including a Rembrandt etching.

“We expect many more donations as potential donors see that we have a safe and beautiful new facility in which we house and display our permanent collection,” said Curator Emily Falke.

Peggy Darling, past Museum board member, supporter and longtime friend of Brown, said her friend would be delighted with the new gallery.

“This is really her dream come true,” she said.