The University Art Museum at Colorado State University is thrilled to announce its new name and a date for its grand re-opening. Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, named thanks to a generous gift from a lead donor, will open its expanded and remodeled space with a public event on Saturday, Sept. 10.

The re-naming of the visual art museum coincides with the completion of the museum’s expansion project, which broke ground in spring 2015 with contributions from a number of gracious supporters, culminating in a remarkable gift of more than two million dollars from a lead donor.

The new name, Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, is a meaningful selection by the lead donor who wishes to remain anonymous. “We are beyond grateful for this extraordinary gift from an art supporter and parent of a CSU alumnus, and for the outpouring of support we received from others throughout the campaign,” said Linny Frickman, director of the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art.

“We cannot thank the Museum’s supporters, and in particular our lead donor, enough. Because of their incredible investments, the art community remains vibrant and strong for Colorado State University, Fort Collins and Northern Colorado,” said Brett Anderson, vice president of University Advancement.

The catalyst for the 6,000 sq. foot expansion was the 2011 promised gift of the Hartford-Tandstad Collection made up of more than 200 works of art, including major works by pivotal figures in the history of European art, and an extensive art research library.

Made with the understanding that the museum would expand the existing museum-standard facility with additional exhibition galleries to house the collection, Gregory Allicar Museum of Art will positively impact the CSU and Northern Colo. communities through remarkable cultural programming, stunning exhibitions, and extensive research opportunities.

“Thanks to outstanding support from donors, the new facility will be a game changer for us, allowing us to continue our robust program of rotating temporary exhibitions, as well as a permanent showcase of our collection,” said Frickman. “The displays enhance our ability to deliver, and solidify our mission as a teaching museum.”

Although the expansion is complete, the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art will remain closed through the summer in order to receive and install the Hartford-Tandstad collection. Additionally, comprehensive renovations have begun on the original galleries, creating a much needed learning center space for workshops, presentations, and public outreach.

The collection was formed by Torleif Tandstad and the late Larry Hartford, originally of Los Angeles, who relocated to Fort Collins in the 1980s. The incredible gift was made in cooperation with the Tessa Foundation, and its creators, David G. Neenan and Sharon L. Neenan.

In addition, the museum’s permanent collection continues to grow in other focus areas including global contemporary, African, and Native American art.

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