MINNEAPOLIS — The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is launching Sensory Friendly Evening, a free quarterly after-hours program for adults with sensory processing differences, autism or developmental disabilities, the museum announced Wednesday.
The program will take place on select Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The museum will be closed to the general public during each event, giving visitors more space and a calmer environment to explore the galleries. The first Sensory Friendly Evening is Wednesday, October 21. Future dates are Jan. 13, 2027 and May 12, 2027.
The Walker developed the program in response to feedback from visitors who attend its monthly Sensory Friendly Sundays, which began in 2018. Some participants asked for similar events geared toward adults at other times of the week, especially in the afternoon or evening. Although the evening program is designed for adults, all visitors are welcome. The museum said it is shaping the program with input from community advisors and accessibility partners.
“We are so grateful to the many neurodivergent leaders and community members who have shaped Sensory Friendly Evening,” Hannah Novillo, program organizer at the Walker Art Center, said. “Through their advocacy we learned that a sensory friendly program designed for adults would meaningfully increase access to arts and culture programming within the Twin Cities.”
Each evening will include a selection of exhibitions, art-making activities and a short, open-captioned film. Sound and other sensory elements in the galleries will be adjusted where possible. Visitors can also use accommodations such as quiet spaces, fidgets, a sensory map and sunglasses.
At the October event, visitors can see “Walker Design Triennial: Beyond Materialism” and “This Must Be the Place: Inside the Walker’s Collection.” Guest teaching artist Grover Hogan will lead an art-making activity, and a sensory friendly film will screen in the Mediatheque Theater. The museum said seasonal activities may also be offered, including Walker Mini Golf in the summer.
Masks are required for all visitors older than 2 to support health and safety. The Walker said accommodations are available for those in a party who are unable to wear a mask.
The program is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Pohlad Family Community Engagement Fund provides lead support for the Walker’s Learning and Public Programs.
Visitors can find more information by emailing access@walkerart.org or calling 612-375-7561. The Walker is located at 725 Vineland Place in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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