Reaching out and reaching across: Collections and social inclusion

Abstract

This paper discusses the ongoing efforts of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, at the University of Oregon, to diversify itself and the publics it serves through programming, community outreach, institutional change and collection development. The JSMA has prioritized the building and sustaining of diverse publics in fulfillment of its new, more inclusive mission and in recognition of the growing and significant presence of Latin American and Asian/Asian American constituents in the region and state, including the university. With an Asian collection formed more than 75 years ago and given to the university to bridge cross-cultural understanding and create a more peaceful world, the JSMA is uniquely positioned to be a vital and relevant art museum for new generations of K-12 and university students and area residents. Increasing audience diversity and availing the collections for cross-curricular teaching, research and community outreach were embraced as key priorities in 2008-2009 strategic planning. Through acquisitions, cross-curricular teaching, research, advisory committees, and community outreach (key priorities in JSMA's strategic plan), the JSMA also furthers the university's diversity goals and seeks to build new audiences for the visual arts.