American Federation of Arts

March 14, 2000

Dear Colleague:

As you know, significant changes in the definition and function of art
museums are reshaping the traditional role of curators. Cultural influences
and economic demands have changed the way exhibitions are interpreted and
marketed.  While the profession assumes greater administrative
responsibilities, the challenge to balance curatorial, institutional, and
personal priorities has inevitably become more difficult.

The American Federation of Arts recently convened a steering committee of
distinguished art museum curators to evaluate a proposal for an annual,
national conference to address some of these issues.  After much discussion,
the committee strongly endorsed the idea, suggested a format, and encouraged
us to proceed.  The Curators Forum was born.

The fundamental goals of the Curators Forum are to provide an opportunity
for discussion and exchange; disseminate knowledge and experience within the
field, and facilitate a dialogue that will continue beyond the conference.
The first annual Curators Forum is tentatively scheduled for a spring 2001
debut in New York City, as a two-and-a-half-day conference.  A program
including a combination of panel discussions, workshops, and breakout groups
was recommended.

The rest is up to you.  We are seeking the advice of curators across the
nation as a vital part of our planning process. Let your voice be heard.
Please take a moment to request a copy of the proposed program and survey.
You must include your name, title, institution, and address to receive a
copy.

Many thanks for your time and consideration of our request.

Sincerely,

John W. Nichols
Director of Museum Services
American Federation of Arts
41 East 65 Street
New York, NY 10010-6594

E-mail  [log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]>
Phone   800-232-0270
Fax     212-861-2487
Web     www.afaweb.org <http://www.afaweb.org>

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).