CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Museum of Art announced Thursday that it will be temporarily closing in response to Cuyahoga County's stay-at-home advisory to slow the spread of COVID-19.
This marks the museum's second closure due to the coronavirus, as it had previously closed its doors from mid-March until June 30.
Prior to their initial reopening, the museum had established an internal task force and consulted with a board-certified epidemiologist and peer institutions across the country to establish protocols and site-specific safety measure in regards to the virus.
"In recognition of the Cuyahoga County Board of Health advisory and to ensure the health and safety of both visitors and staff, the Cleveland Museum of Art will close at the end of the day on Thursday, November 19, and reopen once the advisory expires," said William Griswold, director of the Cleveland Museum of Art. "The museum hopes to open its doors again in mid-December. We plan to retain our current staff throughout the period we are closed and we will continue to offer a full slate of programs online and on social media."
The museum offers a number of dynamic virtual programming, titled Home is Where the Art Is, showcasing the museum's globally recognized digital resources and newly created, fun and engaging programs for fans of all ages. Using the latest technology, the facility brings works of art to everyone in the comfort of their own home as a response to the changing needs of the COVID-19 situation.
The museum plans to continue monitoring the situation and comply with all guidelines issued by both state and local authorities, as well as the Center for Disease Control.
Editor's Note: The below story aired on June 30, 2020
