Prior to its reopening, the only way to see art at the Emerson Museum of Art was through virtual resources. Now, visitors can do more than click through sculptures, paintings and activities, they can experience it up close and in person.

"Just being there and seeing those brushstrokes and seeing the medium that is being used. Despite how sophisticated the virtual programs can be, it’s not the same as being there in person," said Everson Museum’s President of Members Council, Pattie Miller.

There are, of course, safety precautions in place, including masks, exclusive museum hours for high risk visitors and social distancing. And, according to Miller, there’s one other change you may see, even though the art remains the same.

"Sometimes seeing some of the art through a new lens after all that’s going on this summer," said Miller.

That change is context. Miller says exhibits by underrepresented populations paint stories that are unfolding in communities across the country.

"Where we are as a society, just seeing something that was familiar through just seeing it through a new lens was extremely powerful to me," said Miller.

Now visitors can walk amongst the art and experience the power of art with new perspective.

The museum is open on Thursdays from 12-8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 12-5 p.m. with special hours Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. for elderly and high risk guests.