Putting the ‘People’ in the People’s Museum

The Brooklyn Museum of Art is a public institution dedicated to broadening perspectives through inspiring art encounters, and possesses a collection of over 500,000 objects. It distinguishes itself with daring exhibitions, innovative programming, and educational opportunities. The DVDL initiative, part of the museum’s efforts to enhance inclusivity and connectivity in its spaces, aims for a more accessible 21st-century visitor experience.

DVDL crafted a comprehensive, building-wide activation plan, integrating fresh engagement methods and introducing spaces and services to attract a broader audience. This process, deeply rooted in stakeholder engagement, included workshops, interviews, spatial analysis, and forecasting research. DVDL’s Spatial Enhancement and Activation Plan presents a comprehensive set of recommendations and improvements which encompass the whole building. Subsequently, DVDL conducted an architect selection process with museum leadership, which included an invited proposal process and board-led interviews with a group of selected finalists, to refine the plan of bringing a new people’s museum to life. Collaborating with the museum, DVDL explores future curatorial spaces aligned with the plan, identifying specific collection needs, cross-departmental timelines, and shared spatial flexibilities. DVDL will work alongside the museum and other consultants on the future implementation of these strategies.