MUSEUM STATEMENT ON MARCH 18 CLOSURE
BOSTON, MA (March 18, 2023) - The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (ISGM) will not be open today (Saturday, March 18). We were informed that climate activists were planning a protest inside the Museum that could potentially put our community and artworks at risk. After careful consideration, and an abundance of caution for the safety of our staff, volunteers, visitors and collection, we made the difficult decision to remain closed for the day.
Climate activists have been protesting around the world, unfortunately using art museums as a stage to promote their cause. This protest was intentionally planned to coincide with the anniversary of the art theft that took place at the Gardner Museum 33 years ago (3/18/90).
"Isabella Stewart Gardner envisioned her Museum as a place of sharing art, community and conversation. She was an advocate of all forms of art, as well as the environment, especially horticulture,“ said Peggy Fogelman, Norma Jean Calderwood Director. “While it is our mission to uphold Isabella’s values, we do not support this type of tactic that targets art institutions and could possibly put the Museum’s collection, staff and visitors at risk."
All individuals who purchased advanced tickets will be refunded. We apologize for the inconvenience to our visitors, members and entire Gardner community. The Museum will reopen tomorrow. For more information, please visit ISGM.org.