American Swedish Institute to open new cultural center June 30

The American Swedish Institute is getting a sizable expansion.

On June 30, the Institute will open the Carl and Leslie Nelson Cultural Center, which adds 34,000 square foot to the insitute's campus, including new galleries, studios, a flexible meeting space and an expanded café. The center is connected by a courtyard to the institute's historic home, the Turnblad Mansion.

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Architectural rendering of Nelson Cultural Center as seen from Park Avenue

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The center is designed to create a more accessible, welcoming entrance in the Phillips West neighborhood of Minneapolis.

Institute staff say they hope the addition will position the museum squarely as a significant cultural center for the region, featuring the remarkable --and unexpected -- in Nordic arts, music and culture.

The June 30 opening will be marked with an all-day festival featuring tours, live music, and other family activities.

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Architectural rendering of the lobby of the new Nelson Cultural Center.

Construction began in May of 2011.