The installation acknowledges the multifaceted narratives, identities and artistic practices that exist in the United States by including the often-overlooked histories and contributions by Asian American, Black, Indigenous, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and women artists, part of a museum-wide effort to provide a more expansive view of American art.

The new wall layout allows for a more open north-end and center aisle, with smaller more intimate gallery moments at the east and west aisles, which provide rooms for more focused display while allowing the art to be in conversation with other objects on display.

Last updated in 2006 as part of a full building renovation, the new galleries feature a new integrated system of suspended track lighting and less intrusive high-wall linear diffusers. Windows have been covered to provide more clear wall space, but others have been left strategically open to provide views to the inner courtyard, or other points of orientation.

A new 1,700 sf multi-media gallery specifically designed to accommodate Time-Based Media artworks and installations is located at the southern end of the floor. The gallery includes sound isolation, a hanging pipe grid ceiling for flexibility of hanging lighting, audio visual equipment and artworks.

This is the initial phase of a multiyear renewal and reinstallation of the museum’s permanent collection galleries slated for overall completion in 2026 in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.