The Linda and J. Randolph Lewis Wing, named after the couple that donated their collection, will open soon at the Figge. It'll feature 44 pieces from 30 artists like Milton Avery and Alice Neel. The collection of American art was bought over the last 50 years.
Interim Executive Director Melissa Mohr says the Lewises have a longstanding relationship with the museum.
She says the museum will display the collection bit by bit, on a rotating basis.
"We're not going to just take down everything and put up these 44 works," Mohr said. "What we're trying to do is think thoughtfully about how we can pair them with works that already exist in our collection."
"When you juxtapose or place two pieces together, they almost start working in dialogue with each other," she said. "We're looking forward to interspersing a number of the Lewis works over the summer to see how they can create new dialogue for our community members to enjoy and engage in."
The first phase of the collection will go on display next month.
