Figge to celebrate essential workers with FREE ADMISSION to current blockbuster exhibition, and more, April 11-17

Davenport, Iowa (April 8, 2021) – To honor and celebrate Quad Citizens who have stepped up to support the community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Figge Art Museum is offering free admission to all essential workers from April 11-17, 2021.

“Quite simply, we would not have gotten through the past year without the heroic efforts of our community’s essential workers—from medical personnel to teachers to grocery store workers. Day in and day out, these Quad Citizens have consistently made sacrifices for our region,” said Figge Executive Director and CEO Michelle Hargrave. “Their efforts are to be commended and we hope this small token of appreciation will bring a bright spot to a trying year.”

The weeklong celebration is made possible thanks to sponsorship by WVIK—Quad Cities NPR.

The free week comes during an exciting time at the Figge. Currently, the downtown Davenport art museum is hosting the major, traveling exhibition For America: 200 Years of Painting from the National Academy of Design. The exhibition of renowned 19^th and 20^th century of American masterpieces invites visitors to the museum to see how Americans portrayed themselves, and the land, over the past two centuries. It is an unprecedented look at the history of American painting—written by its makers. 

“America is resilient, as demonstrated in For America, and essential workers have been at the forefront of resiliency this past year,” said Figge Assistant Curator Vanessa Sage. “We are hopeful the Figge will provide solace and connection as we forge ahead.”

Healthcare workers, firefighters, law enforcement, educators, grocery store, food service workers and all other essential workers are invited to visit the Figge free of charge anytime during the free admission week. A work badge or proof of employment will be required to receive free admission.  

The Figge is one of the safest places to visit right now due to the strict safety protocols in place. It is a time for visitors to enjoy the artwork without the hassle of crowds in a rare, VIP-like experience. For the health and safety of all who visit the museum, masks are currently required.

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About the Figge Art Museum:
The Figge Art Museum is dedicated to bringing art and people together. Located on the Mississippi River in downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street, the Figge is the premier art exhibition and education facility between Chicago and Des Moines. Its landmark glass building, designed by British architect David Chipperfield, is home to one of the Midwest’s finest art collections and hosts world-class traveling exhibitions, art classes, lectures, and special events that attract visitors of all ages. Museum hours are 10 a.m.­­-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursdays; and 12-5 p.m. on Sundays. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made at www.figgeartmuseum.org or by calling 563-345-6632. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $6 for seniors and students with ID and $4 children ages 4- 12. Admission is free to Figge members and institutional members and to all on Thursday evenings. To contact the museum, please call 563.326.7804, or visit www.figgeartmuseum.org.