Wouldn't it be great if the Curators Forum could take place at the same time
and venue as the American Association of Museums' Annual Meeting (next
spring it will be in St. Louis)?   By coordinating their efforts with the
AAM, the AFA could make a significant contribution in bringing the
curatorial perspective to the museum community as a whole.

Janice Klein
Director
Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, Kendall College
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-----Original Message-----
From: John Nichols <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Tuesday, March 14, 2000 3:32 PM
Subject: Art Museum Curators Forum and Survey


>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>

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