EVOLVING MUSEUMS IN THE 21ST CENTURY: SHARED IDEAS

Abstract

Abstract. This paper explores how museums in North America have adapted to sweeping social, economic, and environmental changes in recent years. Using findings from a survey conducted in 2022 by the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD) and a survey conducted by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), this paper identifies key leadership priorities that may be relevant to museums worldwide. The author, Director of the Currier Museum of Art (CMA), a 100-year-old art museum in New England, lends ideas based on recent institutional strategic planning. The paper is intended to offer ideas based on some practices in North American museums and how such practices might be implemented through strategic planning, leadership recruitment, community wellness programming, and investment in infrastructure. The goal is to create cooperation among museums globally, sharing successful solutions to shared evolving challenges.