The Speed Museum and their Changing Speed Capital Campaign recently received a $1 million donation from Thorntons. The Capital Campaign will fund the expansion and renovation of the museum’s site in Louisville.
The expansion will serve the community through new programming and increased space for educational initiatives, public events and additional gallery space to present the Speed’s remarkable art collection.
According to a recent press release, the donation is being made in honor of Bonnie Thornton, who previously served on the Speed Museum Board of Directors and continues to be actively involved. Thornton’s husband, James Thornton founded Thorntons in 1971.
Thorntons Inc. Chief Executive Officer Matt Thornton elaborated. “Since our inception almost 40 years ago we have made a dedicated commitment to recognize and assist the multitude of diverse nonprofit organizations in the Louisville area,” Matt Thornton said. “and we continuously explore ways to give back to the communities that we serve. It is a great pleasure and an honor to donate this gift to The Speed Art Museum, one that will advance the arts through expanded educational programs and events for our community.”
According to the press release, The Speed Art Museum is Kentucky’s largest art museum with a collection that spans 6,000 years of human creativity. It is located on historic Third Street that was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and is located on the main campus of the University of Louisville. Admission to the permanent collection is free to the public, continuing the vision of the museum’s founder Mrs. Hattie Bishop Speed who believed that everyone should have the opportunity to enhance their life by experiencing great art.
Museum hours are Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Friday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (open late); Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Galleries are closed on Monday and Tuesday.