The Norton Museum of Art is pleased to announce a major gift of
$3.5 million, given by John and Heidi Niblack, in support of
Chinese art. The Niblacks made this significant contribution in
response to specific needs within the Norton’s Chinese
Collection: $2 million towards the acquisition of Chinese
paintings, $.5 million to name a gallery, $.5 million to Chinese
art related educational programming, and $.5 million as a
Visionary Gift, dedicated to annual operating expenses over the
next five years.
The Niblacks said of their
contribution, “Our gift to the Norton Museum aims to enhance
the already impressive Chinese collection, which has long been
noted for its world-class jades and bronzes. Our intention is to
expand the collection of Chinese paintings, create a space
appropriate for their display, and fund programs that inform
visitors about one of the world's oldest and most
vital cultures”.
Their generous
gift was
honored at
the Museum on
January 25,
coinciding
with the Chinese New Year, which welcomed the Year of the Ox.
Guests celebrated the Niblack’s contribution by practicing
Chinese traditions such as giving “lucky money”, and
writing wishes
for good luck in Chinese.
They also toured the Chinese galleries and enjoyed tea and
dumplings.
Norton Museum
Director, Christina Orr-Cahall said of the Niblack’s gift, “We
are fortunate to have such generous donors in our community who
understand the importance and influence of Chinese art and
culture, both historically and in today’s world. With this
support from John and Heidi Niblack, the Norton Museum will not
only be able to further develop its Chinese collection, with a
focus on paintings—which are considered the heart of Chinese
Art—but also to better serve the community through improved
installations and enhanced educational programming.”
John Niblack
currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Norton Museum’s Board
of Trustees and is also a member of its Works of Art Committee.
As a collector of traditional Chinese paintings, Mr. and Mrs.
Niblack have generously supported several Norton exhibitions of
Chinese art. The Niblacks live part of the year in
Palm Beach.
The Norton Museum of Art is open Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to
5 p.m., Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. (Closed Mondays from May through
October and on major holidays.) General admission is $8 for
adults, $3 for visitors ages 13-21, and free for Members and
children under 13. An additional charge may apply for special
exhibitions. West Palm Beach residents receive free admission to
the permanent collection every Saturday, with proof of
residency. Palm Beach County residents receive free admission to
the permanent collection the first Saturday of each month, with
proof of residency. For additional information, please call
(561) 832-5196 or visit
www.norton.org
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