PROVIDENCE, RI, February 28, 2018 - Beginning March 1, 2018, the RISD Museum will welcome newly naturalized U.S. citizens living in Rhode Island with free admission for one-year through a new membership program called Welcome Citizen. The RISD Museum was founded on the belief that art, artists, and the institutions that support them play pivotal roles in promoting broad civic engagement and creating more open societies. This initiative offers our newest citizens the opportunity to look closely, think deeply, explore the creative process, attend programs, and meet new people in the galleries and at our community events.
"Art is for everyone," said John W. Smith, director of the RISD Museum. "It gives us great pride to share the history and experiences of humanity through art and design with our newest citizens."
New members receive free unlimited admission to the RISD Museum for one year for up to two adults and all children 18 and under, invitations to programs and events, subscriptions to print and email newsletters, discounts on shopping, dining, educational programs, and RISD Continuing Education classes. New citizens can sign up for the program by stopping by the visitor services desk at the Museum and showing a copy or photo of their naturalization certificates within one year of their ceremony.
Planning is underway by the U.S. District Court in Providence and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Providence Field Office to hold a judicial naturalization ceremony at the Museum to kick off the new program.
The Welcome Citizen membership program joins other Museum accessibility efforts--including a program announced in August of 2017 which offers free admission to all youth 18 and under as well as ongoing admission-free Sundays.
About the RISD Museum
The RISD Museum was founded on the belief that art, artists, and the institutions that support them play pivotal roles in promoting broad civic engagement and creating more open societies.
Established in 1877 as part of a vibrant creative community, the RISD Museum stewards works of art representing diverse cultures from ancient times to the present. We interpret our collection with the focus on the maker and we deeply engage with art and artists, presenting ideas and perspectives that can be inspiring and complex. We aspire to create an accessible and inclusive environment that builds meaningful relationships across all communities.
For more information: 401-454-6500 or risdmuseum.org.