The Bob Dylan Center™, designed by Olson Kundig, celebrates its grand opening

The new Bob Dylan Center has opened its doors in Tulsa's arts district, offering visitors a chance to access the cultural treasures found in The Bob Dylan Archive. Designed by Olson Kundig, the Center is dedicated to the study and appreciation of Bob Dylan and his worldwide cultural significance. It is the primary public venue for The Bob Dylan Archive, a collection of over 100,000 items spanning nearly 60 years of Dylan's career. The Center houses permanent, temporary, and travelling exhibitions that are readily accessible to artists, historians, musicologists, and the general public seeking a deeper comprehension of Dylan's work.

Olson Kundig is an architect and exhibit designer for the new museum. Led by design principal Alan Maskin, the firm worked to create an immersive experience for visitors that will feature rarely-seen artefacts that illustrate the creative trajectory of one of the world's greatest and most prolific artists. Among the museum's exhibits and highlights is a large-scale facade mural depicting a rare 1965 image of Dylan, donated to the centre by renowned photographer Jerry Schatzberg.

The museum's ever-evolving curated display of elements illuminates the depth and breadth of the Bob Dylan Archive collection. An immersive film experience will initiate visitors through an innovative cascade of archival music and film, directed by renowned Dylan chronicler Jennifer Lebeau. Additionally, a recreation of an authentic studio environment will allow visitors to experience what it was like to be present at one of Dylan's historic recording sessions. The Columbia Records Gallery will provide an in-depth look at the creation, performance, and production of timeless Dylan songs such as "Like a Rolling Stone," "Tangled Up in Blue," and "Chimes of Freedom."

Visitors can also enjoy a screening room that showcases Dylan-related scripted films, documentaries, and concert performances, including never-before-seen material unearthed from the Archive. A multimedia timeline of Dylan's life from his early years in Minnesota through the present day, written by award-winning historian Sean Wilentz, offers a comprehensive overview of the artist's life and career. Additionally, The Parker Brothers Gallery will explore the creative process through the work of other innovative artists, in an initial exhibit curated by influential author Lewis Hyde.

59 Productions, world-leading specialists in design for stage and live events, is collaborating with Olson Kundig on exhibition design and media development. The firm's previous work includes the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, the record-breaking David Bowie exhibition, and the decor concept design for The Met Ball. The collaboration will provide an immersive and dynamic experience for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Dylan's legacy.

The Bob Dylan Center is a multifaceted venue that serves as a hub for the study and appreciation of Bob Dylan's work. The Center offers access to the vast collection of materials held in The Bob Dylan Archive, providing a comprehensive understanding of the artist's life and career. With its immersive exhibits and multimedia timeline, the museum offers a deep dive into Dylan's creative process, allowing visitors to experience the artist's work in a whole new way. The collaboration between Olson Kundig and 59 Productions promises to create an experience that will be both dynamic and unforgettable.

 

Information regarding public admission to The Bob Dylan Center® will be released later this year.

******

Cover Photo ©Matthew Millman