The Hilbert Museum of California Art, one of Orange County’s most popular art destinations, will begin renovations that will add new space for enhanced exhibitions and programs. The project will unite the current museum space with the building next door, previously the home of Chapman’s Department of Dance, which will be moving to a spectacular new venue on the Chapman campus.

Working with the Los Angeles-based architectural design firm Johnston Marklee (JML) and officials from the City of Orange, Chapman developed plans that include more gallery space to exhibit works from the museum’s fine-art collection as well as movie production art, animation art and works of American illustration.

In addition, the museum will add a Founders’ Gallery that will showcase art and cultural objects such as pottery, blankets and baskets assembled by Mark and Janet Hilbert, whose impressive collection of California Scene paintings remains at the heart of the museum.

“It’s wonderful to see how the Orange community, art lovers from throughout the region, and travelers to Orange County from across the nation and around the world have embraced the Hilbert Museum since our opening,” said Mary Platt, director of the museum.

The renovation will also include a research library and conference room, and a community room for lectures, classes and events, along with a cafe and outdoor courtyard.

The Hilbert Museum maintains a robust programming schedule of concerts, lectures and other events, and ongoing partnerships with local organizations such as Pacific Symphony, Orange County School of the Arts, and Orange Barrio Historical Society.

The Hilbert Museum is located at 167 N. Atchison Street, across from the Orange Metrolink station. To accommodate visitors during the expansion project, a temporary location is planned, which will open just off the Orange Plaza. Admission is free.