Montgomery, AL, December 1, 2023 – KultureCity has partnered with the Montgomery Museum of
Fine Arts (MMFA) to make the Museum more sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an
accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue that visits the Museum.
The certification process entailed the staff at the MMFA attending training on how to recognize those
guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped
with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and
weighted lap pads will also be available at the Visitor Services desk to all guests who may feel
overwhelmed by the environment.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with
autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for
these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is part of the environment in a
venue like the MMFA. With its new certification, the MMFA is now better prepared to assist guests with
sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when
visiting the MMFA.
Prior to visiting, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory
features are available and where they can access them. Also on the App is the Social Story, which will
provide a preview of what to expect while spending time at the MMFA.
“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts is
willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their
community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with the MMFA to provide a truly inclusive
experience for all fans and guests!” Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.
ABOUT KULTURECITY
KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and
effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the
program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000 sensory-inclusive venues in 6 countries: this
includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All
Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane
France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with
Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at
Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one
of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the
Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.
ABOUT THE MMFA
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts was founded in 1930 by a group of local artists as a place for
both exhibiting art and space for art education. The original intentions of our founders—to exhibit and
teach—continue to inspire and inform every action and activity here at the Museum which, since 1988,
has shared the 277-acre Blount Cultural Park with our partners across the lake at the celebrated
Alabama Shakespeare Festival.
Today’s MMFA visitors stroll through art-studded grounds and permanent collection galleries. They
see compelling changing exhibitions and learn about art by playing in our interactive gallery, ArtWorks,
making art in its bustling studios, or by participating in other engaging events and programs. And, as
of late September 2018, MMFA visitors can now relax and recharge in the serenity of our stunning new
three-acre sculpture garden.
While the Museum’s collection is still home to the art of many of the regional artists who first
established it, over time it has become known for its strength in American art and Old Master Prints.
Recent, important acquisitions of art made by African American and Asian artists and works inspired
by images and themes related to the experiences of these groups represent the breadth and depth of
the lives and concerns of those who now call Montgomery and the River Region home. Through the
exhibition of this work as well as the programs and events that help connect our communities with it,
the MMFA is recognized as a leading arts and cultural resource here in the state and Southeastern
region.
The MMFA is a department of the City of Montgomery and is supported by funds from the City of
Montgomery, with additional funds from the Montgomery County Commission and the Montgomery
Museum of Fine Arts Association. Programs are made possible, in part, by grants from the Alabama
State Council on the Arts.
