Major donation to Biggs Museum in Dover provides free admission for all visitors

A financial company's donation to the Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover will mean money is no obstacle for anyone who wants to visit.

Dover Federal Credit Union is covering the price of museum admission for two years.

Dover Federal Credit Union CEO Janell Upton said in a statement that the institution seeks opportunities that unite the community, and that Biggs Museum is a "perfect partner" in that alignment.

Founded in 1993 by collector Sewell C. Biggs, the nonprofit museum features American art from 1700 to today including pieces from Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region, with paintings, sculptures, furniture, silver and more.

Hassan Najjar, executive director of the museum, said Dover Federal's donation will open the door to more visitors.

"Art is a powerful way to bring people together," Najjar said in the statement. The credit union's support will make the museum more accessible, he said, allowing everyone an opportunity "to experience the transformative power of art." 

When he heard about the donation, his reaction was, "The more people who can see this art, the better. We're so fortunate to have a partner who is so community-minded."

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For more than 66 years, Dover Federal Credit Union has provided economic empowerment for Delaware residents and businesses as a not-for-profit financial cooperative offering checking and savings accounts, loans and financial education. 

Upton said Dover Federal's donation to cover museum admission opens opportunities for anyone from any socio-economic background.

"Art is something we can all unite around, and everyone can be a participant here," she said.

More about the Biggs Museum of American Art

At 406 Federal Street near Legislative Hall, the Biggs Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.  

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In addition to the permanent collection, the museum offers special exhibits including these recent highlights:

• inspiring artwork created by children and adults with disabilities through the Art Works for All residency program 

• pieces by internationally renowned contemporary artist Rozeal, exploring themes of identity and cultural expression

• selections from the Ralf Nemec collection showcasing the work of renowned artist and activist Rockwell Kent whose illustrations explore humanity's relationship with nature through depictions of the earth's most rugged environments

The staff encourages the development of creativity and an appreciation for art by offering a slate of educational programs for all ages. 

The museum is also a hub for community events as part of celebrations like Dover Days, Comic Con, the Delaware Pride Festival and the Positively Dover African American Festival. 

Reporter Ben Mace covers real estate, development and business news. Reach him at rmace@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Donor to Dover's Biggs Museum provides free admission for all visitors