Walker Art Center Projects $5.7 Million Drop In Revenue

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The Walker Art Center is projecting a $5.7 million drop in revenue — or the equivalent of 26 percent of its previous operating budget — amid the coronavirus crisis. As a result, the modern art museum announced it will be cutting back on staff and programs.

On July 1, the center will lay off 15 part-time staff from the Walker's shop and visitor services and 18 part-time gallery assistants.

"I know this is difficult news for everyone to hear and most difficult for those who will be leaving the Walker," Executive Director of the Walker Art Center Mary Ceruti said in a news release.

“The reduction of our hours, programs and operations was determined through a complex process as we took in information from medical and public health experts, economists, staff, colleagues, artistic partners, and our audiences.”

The Walker will also freeze all salaries and reduce its pension contribution by 1 percent, the company announced. In addition, the Executive Director is taking a 20 percent pay cut and senior leadership will take 10 percent pay cuts.