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clyfford still | museum
Girl holds a clipboard and writes something while looking up at an artwork
A girl holds a clipboard and writes on paper while looking up and a large brown and black abstract painting is behind her
inStill student

Education + Programs Guiding Philosophy

The Education and Programs department promotes engagement with CSM’s collections through innovative interpretation, programming, continuous evaluation of our offerings, and other initiatives. Our philosophy is derived from the Clyfford Still Museum’s mission and the standards and principles set by the American Alliance of Museums’ Education Professional Network (EdCom), both of which provide the foundation for Museum learning and engagement.

Vision:

The timeless and universal nature of abstract art provides a launchpad to explore our own humanity, express our creativity, and question the complex world we live in. We collaborate with all people to nurture joyful experiences with art, confront our collective ideas, and generate new meaning. In sharing power and reframing expertise the Education and Programs department aims to be a model for educational practice and a change agent in the field of museum education.

Philosophy:

We are a single-artist museum, but have more than one story to discover.

Clyfford Still said, “People should look at the work itself and determine its meaning to them.” We champion the valuable contribution of all visitors and strive to create a space in which everyone can make meaning and share their voice. We must continuously address the history of museums and intentionally seek participation from historically excluded populations.

Values:

  • We love learning!
  • We embrace established and emerging research and strategies in the field.
  • We collaborate to generate new ideas.
  • We innovate through experimentation and failure.
  • We listen to our community and advocate for their needs and interests.
  • We strive for a rich environment for learning which is accessible, represents diverse perspectives, and is inclusive.
  • We allow time for collaborative evaluation, reflection, research, and sharing within the field.
  • We think holistically about the folks in our programs; ensuring that we address social-emotional needs, learning styles, and barriers to participation.