National Museum of African Art’s Condolence Book for Nelson Mandela Is Open through Dec. 15

The staff of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art expresses heartfelt condolences on the passing of former President Nelson Mandela of the Republic of South Africa, and the museum is displaying a condolence book that the public may sign; it will be sent to the Mandela family. Visitors can sign the book through Dec. 15 during regular museum hours, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For those unable to visit the museum, condolences can be posted on the museum’s website or on its Facebook page.

“I am profoundly saddened by the passing of former President Nelson Mandela, a beloved and powerful citizen of South Africa and the world who worked  throughout his life for peace, justice and equality,” said Johnnetta Betsch Cole, the director of the National Museum of African Art. “There are no words that can adequately capture the extraordinary impact of his life and work.” Cole’s full statement may be viewed on the museum’s website at http://africa.si.edu.

For a full bio on Mandela, visit http://africa.si.edu.

About the National Museum of African Art

The National Museum of African Art is the nation’s premier museum dedicated exclusively to the collection, conservation, study and exhibition of Africa’s traditional and contemporary arts. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed Dec. 25). Admission is free. The museum is located at 950 Independence Ave. S.W., near the Smithsonian Metrorail station on the Blue and Orange lines. For more information, call (202) 633-4600 or visit the National Museum of African Art’s website. For general Smithsonian information, call (202) 633-1000.

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