Bellevue, WA — September 4, 2024 — The Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM), a cornerstone of the community known for its cultural and educational contributions, has announced it will be closing its doors to the public effective today. The closure marks the end of an era for the nearly 50-year-old institution, which has faced mounting financial challenges exacerbated by the lingering effects of the pandemic.
“BAM was established almost 50 years ago and was largely the product of volunteerism and a drive to give the Eastside community access to the arts year-round,” said Kate Casprowiak Scher, Executive Director of BAM. “Generations of Bellevueites have supported this museum, and we are deeply proud of the exhibitions and programming we have produced. Unfortunately, the financial model in the new building has never been sustainable, and it has relied too heavily on ‘one-time’ big donors. We are caught in a cycle of financial instability that prevents us from reaching our potential.”
The museum has struggled with declining attendance, reduced donations, and rising operational costs since the pandemic. These factors have left the institution in an unsustainable financial position, leading to the difficult decision to cease operations.
“Closing the museum is not a decision we take lightly,” Scher continued. “We have explored many different paths to keep our doors open. We have reached out to government, corporate, and community stakeholders but have consistently come up short. There is great hesitancy to invest in an institution with preexisting financial issues. I find it frustrating because I know we have immense potential to serve the public and build Bellevue’s cultural identity. This is not just a loss for the museum, but for the entire Bellevue community. We understand the disappointment and sadness this news will bring, and we share in those feelings.”
Despite the closure, BAM leadership remains committed to managing the Bellevue Arts Fair in 2025, a signature event for the community. Additionally, the museum has filed for Receivership, which could allow for a potential restructuring or rebirth of the institution. “This is not the end, but rather the beginning of a new chapter,” Scher said. “Receivership represents uncharted territory for BAM; however, it opens a chance for much-needed reinvention and partnership.”
Board President Jay Pathy praised Scher’s efforts to navigate the museum through its financial struggles. “Kate has been a remarkable leader during these challenging times, tirelessly working to secure the future of BAM. Her dedication and creativity in the face of adversity have been nothing short of extraordinary.”
Earlier this year, the museum launched the “SAVE BAM” campaign and successfully raised over $350,000 in six weeks, enabling the institution to operate for several additional months and host the beloved Bellevue Arts Fair. However, these efforts were not enough to secure the long-term viability of the museum.
As BAM prepares for this transition, the institution will retain a small staff to oversee private events and manage the Arts Fair 2025.
The impact of BAM’s closure will be felt deeply by the Bellevue community, especially those who relied on the museum as a place of learning, inspiration, and connection. The museum has been a vital part of the community, offering exceptional exhibitions and programs that have touched countless lives.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported BAM over the years. Your belief in the power of art and culture has been our greatest strength, and we hope that, in time, we may find a way to bring that spirit back to life in a new and sustainable form,” Pathy added.