While reading older literature on both museum education and visitor studies,
I've been impressed by the work of Alma Wittlin. Her two books (both out of
print) THE MUSEUM, ITS HISTORY AND ITS TASK IN EDUCATION (1949) and MUSEUMS FOR
A USABLE FUTURE (1971), are excellent, as are some of her imaginative and
forward looking articles, for example, "The Hazards of Communication by
Exhibits," in Curator, in the 1970's.
I'm trying to find out more about Dr. Wittlin's life and work, including her
dates. She earned a doctorate in Vienna before World War II, came to England
and then the US. She may still be alive and active. I have traced her to 1985
in Palo Alto, and spoken to a few people who remember her.
Is there anyone out there who has information to share? I would appreciate it.
until end of February:
George E. Hein, Visiting Scholar
CAPSI, Caltech, 1-98, Pasadena, CA 91125.
Phone 818/395-3146, fax 818/440-0865
permanent address:
George E. Hein, Professor
Director, Program Evaluation and
Research Group
Lesley College
29 Everett St.
Cambridge, MA 02138
617/349-8451
fax: 617)/349-8668
|