Bristol Art Museum Receives Grant to Enhance Gallery Viewing Spaces

The Bristol Art Museum today announced that it is the recipient of a grant to improve exhibit spaces in one of its galleries.  

​The lighting in the Museum’s Livingston Gallery was last changed during the original restoration of the building. This exhibit area is where local and national artists’ artwork is showcased. Since installation, the lighting has aged.  Rhode Island State Representatives June Speakman (Bristol - Warren) and Susan Donovan (Bristol-Prudence Island) secured a $1,500 Legislative Grant to upgrade lighting to energy-efficient LED lighting that will more effectively showcase artists’ work. 

“Nonprofit arts organizations such as the Bristol Art Museum make immeasurable contributions to the East Bay area, which offers several arts and culture destinations,” said Rep. Speakman. “We are pleased to support this arts organization that works tirelessly to bring the work of local, regional and national artists to Rhode Island for the viewing and enjoyment of those with an affinity for art. This grant is a great example of how the legislature can support local nonprofits that offer so much to the people of Rhode Island.”

“Living in a community with active arts organizations enhances the quality of life in Bristol,” said Rep. Donovan. “The Art Museum’s presence here has contributed to our standing as a destination town serving visitors and local inhabitants alike. We are happy to be able to support ongoing improvements to the space.” 

“The Bristol Art Museum offers its sincere gratitude to Representatives Speakman and Donovan for securing this needed grant to enhance exhibit space in our Livingston Gallery,” said Mary Dondero, Museum Curator.  “This particular gallery often exhibits works from local and regional artists. With this grant, we can enhance the space to properly showcase artwork.”

Rep. Speakman has served District 68, which includes Warren and Bristol, since 2019. A champion of affordable housing, she is a former college professor at Rutgers University and the Claremont Colleges. Rep. Speakman currently serves as a faculty member in Roger Williams University’s Department of Politics and International Relations.

Rep. Donovan has served District 69, which includes Bristol and Prudence Island, since 2016.  A retired health and physical education teacher who taught hundreds of Bristol children during her thirty-five years of service is a former Bristol Art Museum board member. Rep. Donovan is Chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee and member of the Education, Oversight and Veterans Affairs Committees. 
 The Bristol Art Museum, founded in 1964, is a nonprofit organization located at 10 Wardwell Street in Bristol, Rhode Island. Its mission is to encourage the creation, promotion, and appreciation of the arts through rotating exhibitions and educational opportunities. Community outreach programs and partnerships are central to our goal of engaging diverse audiences in the arts of our time. The Museum enriches the cultural life of the community and region through eclectic exhibitions and educational programs

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