What do you feel accountable for? Your staff? Your schedule? Your collection?
We all feel strongly for something and many of us in collections care to gravitate to this field because we want to be responsible for stewarding an object’s well being. This issue is all about how art pros are taking ownership of what is going on in our community and making an impact in their own ways. Our focus should not only be internal but external as well.
Check out the articles in this issue to see how professionals are taking responsibility to educate and build transparency. From a look at SFMOMA’s director to MFA’s new conservation center, museums are looking for ways to create a better understanding both inside and out. It is important that we find ways to engage not only with our public but also with the people that help build our institutions. Take care to listen to both perspectives when you evaluate your plan.
Check out the Resource section to find out some ways to really step up your level of accountability. AAM has several programs that can help you manage your accessibility and public engagement. They also have a wonderful program called the Museum Assessment Program, and if you are not familiar with it you are missing out. This peer review can help institutions get an outside perspective on ways they can improve, and strengthen internal practices.
Finally, I hope that you are finding ways to prepare for the end of the year and hold your team accountable for your success in the next one. Take a listen to my latest podcast about end-of-year inventories and spot checks, and I hope it helps you consider ways to check on where you are headed. Please let me know if I can help be a sounding board, or share your victories in stewardship. I am doing my best to contribute to the strength of our community, and I sincerely appreciate everyone out there doing the same.