KEARNEY, Neb. - Nebraska's most highly anticipated museum renovation is almost complete.

The Museum of Nebraska Art, MONA, is preparing to unveil its newly expanded and renovated facility to the public on May 3.

The museum features a 23,000 square foot addition which includes four new gallery spaces, upgraded climate and lighting systems and a state-of-the-art storage facility to keep pieces in top shape.

This is in addition to creative education area, which is part of an effort to make artistic programming more possible in Central Nebraska.

"Really this is a big change for the entire MONA to be able to show so much more of what we have in the collections, to be able to produce so many more exhibitions, and really to be able to showcase these beautiful new facilities that will host professional shows, traveling artists, all kinds of different things," said MONA Executive Director Andrew Dunehoo.

The years-long renovation project faced some challenges during construction, but officials say community support helped keep the project moving in order to create the perfect environment for artists.

"Some of these projects, they go a little bit longer than you think, but it's worth doing right and we've taken the appropriate amount of time to make it as great as it is," said Dunehoo. 

Mona is the official home of Nebraska's state art collection, making it an artistic hub for artists and enthusiasts alike. 

"This is about artists all across the state, and the arts communities, and the way that art inspires our communities all across Nebraska," said Dunehoo. "his is really going to be something that stands the test of time (1:45) for many years to come, and something that all Nebraskans can be proud of.


Officials added that they have art exhibits planned years in advance, and plan to expand the local art programming scene.

This newly renovated museum is set to make a lasting mark across the state.