Since I started here, one of the efforts I have been the proudest of the Georgia Museum of Art for is its focus on inclusivity. I grew up visiting different kinds of museums with my parents and my brother. As I shared my experiences with friends and heard people explain reasons for not going to museums, I felt disheartened. Elitism and lack of awareness were usually the most common causes. Often people would explain that museums were too expensive or didn’t showcase works of interest for people of diverse backgrounds, and worst was that people of different backgrounds simply did not feel welcomed inside museums. Unfortunately, these sentiments are all too common.
The museum has taken strides to help eliminate factors like these. With free admission, Family Days, Art Cart, educational packets, and more, we aim to ensure no one feels excluded. And we try to foster community awareness, whether it be through our site, “Facet,” social media, or even on the radio.
As museums all over the country develop steps to reopen, lets challenge one another to continue breaking down barriers that make people feel unwelcomed. Lets also continue reaching out to different outlets in different communities to spread awareness about special events and exhibitions. Results may not happen overnight, but if we want to keep showing a wide range of artifacts, paintings, sculptures and other forms of art for years to come, we have to keep inspiring people of all backgrounds today.
Authored by:
Candice Lawrence
