Outreach That Brings Them “In”

While so many museums and cultural organizations are struggling to align their missions with the needs of their surrounding communities, we found one museum whose mission and tagline, “ARTS for everyone,” is the cornerstone of their ongoing community-based outreach.

Although it is small in comparison to most museums (5 staff members), the Attleboro Arts Museum (AAM) is housed in one of the largest gallery spaces between Boston and Providence and has evolved from its modest, grassroots beginnings into an impressive, robust and dynamic arts organization, serving as a cultural anchor for the revitalization of the City of Attleboro and the surrounding communities.

Their mission statement begins like those of so many arts organizations: “…involving audiences of all ages and backgrounds in the arts though diverse educational programs and engaging arts experiences.” But the one unique difference is found on the second line of their mission…“We work to support the creative and artistic development of both promising and professional artists.” There are very few museums that give “promising artists” (i.e., the general public) the opportunity to showcase their art on the same walls as professional artists. AAM is committed to creating a friendly and inspiring environment that is not intimidating or guarded. No matter what your age, background or experience with art is, you can visit the museum (for free), take part in their many art classes and workshops, and submit your own art in a number of their national and regional juried art shows.

On a recent visit to the museum I had the pleasure of speaking with Abby Rovaldi, AAM’s programs coordinator, about High Art: Blurring the Lines. This juried exhibit is just one example of their commitment to community-based programs that showcase and celebrate the emerging talent and point of view of area high school students.

Even with reduced funding in the arts and the subsequent loss of school faculty, 11 high schools and 92 students and instructors are participating in this year’s exhibit. The theme, Blurring the Lines, explores the various meanings of the word “line”: crossing the line, enemy lines, blood lines, age lines, reading between the lines and drawing the line are just a few examples.

Working collaboratively, students must work to blur the lines between each other’s artistic input and processes while ultimately creating a seamless piece of art. In the process, students often touch upon personal experiences and social issues that make for a more meaningful connection to the museum and the art they create. From conception and design to installation of their artwork, students learn to work cooperatively, demonstrate their commitment to their craft, and come to understand what it means to be part of this vibrant art community.

Many of these students are later seen at a number of other museum exhibits and events. Those students aspiring to go on to art school have outstanding artwork and experience to include in their portfolios and have found a mentor in Abby, who freely gives her time to students and local schools. Last year one student even entered and was accepted into the museum’s national juried art show, a very competitive event showcasing both professional and promising new artists.

With their many juried art shows for students and adults, poetry slam, Art Lovers Book Club and annual flower show, it’s clear that the Attleboro Arts Museum is fulfilling its mission of building a solid connection with their community, all while helping to nurture and inspire the next generation of life-long museum supporters.