Museum in the Garden Breaks Ground

Left to right: Jeff Justen, Brad Cloepfil, Claire Agre, Mayor John Cotugno, Campaign Committee Chair Emily Sherwood, Ned Sherwood, Board Chair Richard Segal, Executive Director Brady Roberts, and Monica Segal

It's official! On Friday, the shovels hit the ground to kick off the Vero Beach Museum of Art's sweeping "Museum in the Garden" expansion, expected to not only modernize the Museum, but redefine its role as one of Vero's core community institutions.

The new expansion will significantly increase exhibition space and include classrooms, cafes and auditoriums, while adding 1.5 acres of new green space.

Quotes from the morning:

“I mentioned that this project could only happen in Vero Beach, but this is also part of a uniquely American way of building privately funded civic institutions for the benefit of the greater community. America’s philanthropy is second to none, and we’re proud to break ground today in Vero Beach in a fine chapter in that American tradition.”

-- Brady Roberts, Executive Director/CEO, VBMA

We’re such a warm and welcoming community, which has a small town feel, but big city offerings. We have a diverse array of cultural resources — from art to theatre, opera, ballet, symphony, chamber music and so much more — thanks to a sophisticated community that appreciates and nourishes such a rich cultural environment.

-- Emily Sherwood, "Museum in the Garden" Campaign Committe Chair

“As VBMA approaches its 40th anniversary next year, Allied Work’s visionary design positions the Museum for the future — enabling it to meet growing audience demand, expand capacity to showcase its collection and exhibitions, and strengthen resilience against coastal risks.”

-- Richard Segal, Board Chair, VBMA; Co-Chair, Building Committee

"Today's groundbreaking is both a celebration of that remarkable legacy and a bold step toward the future. The new addition and reimagined facility will expand educational and gallery space, enhance resiliency against coastal and climate risks, and ensure this landmark continues to inspire generations to come."

-- John Cotugno, Mayor, City of Vero Beach

Principal Architect Brad Cloepfil of Allied Works told Vero Minute he believes this design is truly revolutionary and hopes it will serve as a model for new art institutions around the country.