$25 Million Expansion Will Double the Museum’s Size

Old Dominion University has officially broken ground on a transformative expansion of the Barry Art Museum—an ambitious $25 million project that will significantly elevate the museum’s footprint, programming, and role within the Hampton Roads cultural landscape.

A Museum with Momentum

Since opening in 2018, the Barry Art Museum has quickly become a vital part of ODU’s campus and Norfolk’s arts scene. Known for its distinctive collection of glass art, kinetic sculpture, and contemporary works, the museum has provided an accessible cultural space that bridges the university and the broader community.

Its impact extends beyond exhibitions: it’s become a center for interdisciplinary education, public events, and creative dialogue. The newly announced expansion reflects both the museum’s success and its future potential.

What the Expansion Includes

The new 25,000-square-foot addition will more than double the museum’s current size. The design includes new gallery space, immersive exhibition environments, educational programming areas, and flexible rooms for events and installations. Special emphasis will be placed on new media, interactive technologies, and expanding the museum’s celebrated glass art program.

This isn’t just about adding square footage. It’s about expanding the museum’s capacity to engage, educate, and inspire in new ways.

A Vision for the Future

Museum Executive Director Charlotte Potter Kasic described the project as a “visionary step” toward positioning the Barry Art Museum as a major destination for contemporary art, particularly in the realm of glass and media arts. The new space will allow the museum to host more ambitious exhibitions and support ODU’s growing academic programs in the arts, technology, and design.

The expansion is part of a broader push to strengthen the university’s role in the cultural and intellectual life of the region. University President Brian O. Hemphill emphasized that the project demonstrates ODU’s commitment to innovation, community engagement, and the arts.

Funding and Timeline

Funded through a mix of private support and university investment, the expansion broke ground in April 2025 and is expected to open in 2026. It’s a major milestone for the university, and a sign of confidence in the Barry Art Museum’s growing influence.

More Than a Museum

As ODU grows its campus and its role in the region, the Barry Art Museum stands as a symbol of the university’s creative ambition. This expansion will make it possible to welcome more visitors, create more meaningful experiences, and serve as a platform for diverse voices and ideas.

Whether you’re an art lover, a student, or a member of the community, this project represents an exciting step forward—not just for ODU, but for the entire Hampton Roads area.