WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — The Clark Art Institute on Tuesday officially posted its new admission policy, ending a long-standing practice of free admission November through May.

 

Beginning Jan. 1, adult admission to the galleries will be $20, according to the museum's website.

 

Admission will continue to be free for members, children under 18 and students with valid identification.

 

"We are also very happy to announce that we are instituting a new program of free admission on the first Sunday of each month from October through May," Clark Director of Communications Victoria Saltzman said in an email on Tuesday.

 

"In addition, we will continue to offer free admission for several family-themed days throughout the year, including a free day on Jan. 18 for a Monet|Kelly drawing day and a free winter celebration day on Feb. 15."

 

There had been some speculation that Clark would begin charging admission in the winter months after its reopening on July 4 and the conclusion of a $145 million renovation and addition. The nearly 60-year-old museum has been categorized as a "Bilbao of the Berkshires" and is expected to draw another 30,000 visitors a year.

 

Through the end of December, admission is free in the main galleries. However, the Monet|Kelly exhibition has a $10 admission charge through Dec. 31.