Q+A: Inside the CMA’s newly reimagined collection galleries
Presented by Columbia Museum of Art
Behind the scenes at CMA — Senior Curator Michael Neumeister shares insights on the new gallery while standing by the scaled-down planning model. | Photo provided by the Columbia Museum of Art/Victor Johnson
The Columbia Museum of Art has reinstalled its collection galleries, blending beloved works with fresh acquisitions and bold curatorial choices. Senior Curator Michael Neumeister shares how the collection galleries are organized, what’s new, and what visitors can expect.
Tell us about this new installation and how the art is organized. How is it different from previous versions?
The new galleries are organized around American, Asian, European, and modern + contemporary art. Historical displays are occasionally interrupted with contemporary works to highlight dialogue across time.
Thematic galleries explore still life, landscape, and architecture, and three solo exhibitions feature South Carolina artists Jasper Johns, Richard Samuel Roberts, and Winston Wingo. About a third of works on view have never been exhibited or haven’t been shown in decades. The installation balances thematic, chronological, and dynamic approaches to feel fresh without losing sight of the museum’s history.
How many objects are in the CMA Collection vs. how many are on view? Was it difficult to choose what to display?
The museum has 7,000+ objects, with about 320 on view. Curators focused on the collection’s most significant works while seeking unexpected perspectives. Important gifts, like Renaissance and Baroque pieces from the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, are highlighted alongside works that offer new surprises.
In this new installation, are all works in the CMA Collection?
Several works are on loan from museums across the country, including modern and contemporary pieces from the National Academy of Design. Artists like Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, David Diao, and Richard Hunt appear in CMA galleries for the first time.
Tell us about an object in this installation that you are excited about and why.
Two recently conserved Sam Gilliam paintings, each nearly 10 feet tall, are shown side-by-side for the first time, creating a dramatic moment in the galleries.
Without giving too much away, are there any surprises in store for visitors who have seen your collection galleries previously?
The CMA’s first-ever Georgian England period room and the largest Asian art gallery yet offer fresh perspectives, new acquisitions, and dynamic arrangements.
What do you want people to take away from their gallery experience?
I hope visitors feel inspired and enriched, and that Columbia residents feel proud to host a world-class museum built by 75 years of community support.
Dynamic installations, rare loans, and never-before-seen works make the CMA’s galleries a chance to experience both its history and its next chapter.
“The Game’s Afoot” | Thursday, Jan. 8-Sunday, Jan. 11 | Times vary | The Venue MTP | $30+
Friday, Jan. 9
Alpine Symphony with Bruch’s Violin Concerto | Friday, Jan. 9-Saturday, Jan. 10 | 7:30 p.m. | Gaillard Center | $26+ | From the composer who brought you one of the most iconic openings in film (2001: A Space Odyssey), Richard Strauss’ transcendent “Alpine Symphony” is a breathtaking and epic experience.*
The sandwich aficionados at The Pass just opened their second location in the Charleston area. Any guesses where? It might be a pleasant surprise.
Sports
The Carolina Panthers are back in the NFL playoffs for the first time since 2017. This Saturday, Jan. 10, the team will host the Los Angeles Rams in Charlotte, with kick-off at 4:30 p.m. We recommend heading to a local sports bar for the best atmosphere.
Number
$9 billion. That’s how much estimated damage the Carolinas incurred from weather events in 2025. July’s Tropical Storm Chantal and a blustering October storm were responsible for the financial toll. The best time to prepare for the 2026 season is as soon as possible. (Post and Courier)
Quoted
“It was pretty progressive for its time because the concept of urban planning was a new field,” said Maria Martin, North Charleston’s cultural resource coordinator, about the city’s historical circular design. Learn more about the fascinating history behind the layout. (Post and Courier)
Try This
Mermaids are officially returning to the South Carolina Aquarium. The mythical creatures will come to life on weekends throughout February, swimming in the facility’s waters. Get tickets to ensure you are part of that world.
Award
Paddock & Whisky was recently named among the best 150 whisky bars in the nation. Specifically, the original James Island location was noted for its “petite salute to fine bourbon.” Next time the voters are in town, they should try the oysters, too.
Travel
A reminder: Breeze Airways is launching direct flights from Charleston to Cancun later this month. The popular Mexican destination is renowned for its white sand beaches, slew of hotels, and its food + nightlife scene. Book a last-minute trip.
Health
Zero-drop shoes — flat from heel to toe and inspired by barefoot running — are gaining popularity for encouraging a natural stride and strengthening foot muscles. But are they right for you?Find out.*
Yesterday, we included an incorrect event for the recently shuttered Palmetto Brewing Co. Sorry to get your hopes up. The brewery is still closed.
Editor’s Pick
New year, new you?
Are you going to spend more time outdoors this year? | Photo by @fortheloveofcharleston
Some of the most common New Year’s resolutions are easier to achieve than you think, thanks to Charleston’s local gems:
Exercise more at one of the Holy City’s best gyms, or head to a park to get your steps in without the membership fee.
If you want to learn a new skill, the Lowcountry’s food scene isn’t confined to its restaurants — we’ve also got stellar cooking classes.
Reading is making a comeback, with online trends showing a big uptick in book purchases. From hockey player romances to classic literature, and everything in between, Charleston’s independent bookstores are the place to start.
The Buy
Don’t let chilly temps keep you cooped up all winter. Bundle up with one of our favorite scarves:
My wife and I just booked a vacation — we’re heading off on a Pacific Northwest road trip later this year. Planning out the adventure has been wonderfully exciting, and I love having something in the calendar to look forward to.
That got me thinking. If someone planned a trip to Charleston, what should they do? Send me your best tips for Lowcountry visitors, and I’ll round them up in a future newsletter.
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