What do you think of when I say museum? Probably something visual…maybe a mission statement…or maybe you think of a huge building full of objects. We spend a lot of time focusing on the front-facing parts of what we do. We often get caught up in the optics of how we are perceived, but it’s really our behind-the-scenes decisions that matter. This issue’s theme is all about building from the inside out because the components of something are what lead to its lasting quality. If you do not take care of your internal processes, decisions, and goals then it really does not matter how shiny your facade is.
Check out this issue’s articles covering all sorts of information about what makes up our community. Whether it is past decisions like those of the management of the Benton estate by the UMB Bank or current ones such as the latest example of how visitors and artists are engaging at MOMA, the way we handle challenging scenarios will define us. One interesting example of building an organizational history can be seen in the article about the Lucas Museum, where we are still defining ourselves and finding ways to share that vision.
For more insights into the inner workings of cultural institutions, check out the resource section. Patrick Bringley has written his account of working in The Metropolitan Museum that gives an intimate account of working as part of the unseen staff of a museum. Take a look too at the California Arts Council site for places where you can find programming, funding, and other opportunities to grow as an arts professional.
Finally, I hope my latest podcast will help with building your confidence and boldness in moving forward in your own career. I look at the comparisons between the work we do making bold decisions daily, and how we can translate that into putting ourselves out there for new opportunities. Knowing your worth is vital to strengthening your inner process. I hope you will reach out if I can ever help you with a resume review and consultation. Ambition is not a bad word, and if you put your efforts into building a quality network and reputation you have every reason to be proud of it.