HomeMy WebLinkAboutboardmemo02-17-2022
1331 Algoma Boulevard, Oshkosh WI 54901 • 920.236.5799 • oshkoshmuseum.org
MEMO TO THE MUSEUM BOARD
February 17, 2022
To the Board,
Staff began the week deinstalling White Christmas: The Exhibition. On Monday, the graphics
and other 2-dimensional pieces came down and were packed away. On Tuesday, the Henry’s
arrived to assist with the deinstallation and packing of the textile portions. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Henry were pleased with how the Oshkosh Public Museum (OPM) showcased the
collections.
Particularly special is their desire to continue traveling the exhibition throughout the country.
I believe the expertise and advice they received from Anna and other staff members will be
valuable to them as they move forward with their plans and continue to grow the collection.
Heather French-Henry also was gracious enough to draw the winner of our Operation
Waverly prize for the two hand-made ornaments. That video was posted on social media and
received nearly 300 views on Facebook in the days since it was posted.
I presented to the Mid-Morning Kiwanis last Friday morning. It was my pleasure to discuss
my background and feature the world-class collection of Tiffany Studios decorative art
contained within the OPM collection. My hope is to continue promoting this stellar collection
and share just how important it is to American artistry. I also emphasized the vitality of
museums and history. Museums provide a safe place to explore the unknown and ask
questions. Exhibits and artifacts can bridge generational divides that outside of the gallery,
may feel too wide to get beyond.
During the presentation, I also touched on the value of understanding and exploring history.
History nurtures both personal and community identity. Look at towns with a strong sense of
historic character; often that identity can attract business and increase tourism. The study of
history also requires understanding what makes a source valid and requires a grasp of ideas
such as continuity, historical perspective, context, and causation. The presentation was well-
received, and I look forward to doing more community outreach with groups in the area!
Please note that this will be my last regular weekly memo to the board. I will send out memos
if there is immediate news to share, but standard updates will be reported at monthly board
meetings moving forward.
Many thanks for all you do,
Sarah Phillips
Museum Director