For what it is worth, my observation is that departmental staff come and go frequently. By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. She said that former employees had told her, unsolicited, that they were still experiencing nightmares, PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] and continual therapy from their experience working at the museum. I think well move on with our agenda now. Late-night Thursdays until 9pm; closed Tuesdays. Immerse yourself into world-class art, exciting history, and mind-bending science. Leaves me wondering what nerve was touched that sent this reader into such a defensive stance. I showed her where Pam was, Weitzman said. Contact her at skestin@avlwatchdog.org. If youre able, please consider supporting the Museum through a donation; by becoming a Museum Member, renewing your membership early, or upgrading your current membership; or by shopping or purchasing a gift card in the Museum Store. It is time for us, artists and arts professionals of Asheville and surrounding regions, to do what the Board of Trustees has been unable to accomplish as a body: collectively and publicly voice our care for the Museum staff, advocate for them and the Museums future, and call for the removal of Pam Myers as Executive Director.. The Asheville Art Museum's vision is to transform lives through art. Ms. Hamill sounds elitist, uncaring and out of touch. Through his work, Roland engages visitors in dialogues around community, social contract, identity, biases, and other deeply human experiences. Asked for comment, Benites wrote that after significant discussion the board had decided to have all communications be with the chair.. It is common knowledge among museum experts that museum stores and restaurants have become much needed sources of additional revenue; leadership at Asheville Art Museum, however, treats the store and cafe as unimportant after thoughts, refusing to provide the resources and support they need in order to be profitable. We share your inclination to get the whole story. Your email address will not be published. Museum Members receive 12 months of free general admission. It is a cornerstone in this art-rich town that we can all be very proud of.. Does Pam have the museum board over a barrel, given all the board member remarks about all the money she brings in? The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). All voted in favor of removing Weitzman. One of the only free art museums in Asheville, the Black Mountain College Museum is small and donation-based. In further checking the solicitation license had been applied for and received in 2022. Employee complaints have been a source of discord on the museum board. This is not a game to me, Weitzman said, adding that she had raised concerns about employee mistreatment with Saenger; with the previous chair, Herbert Butch Patrick Jr.; and with board vice chair Kevin Click, the chair of the human resources committee. Ive seen her wash the dishes after big events; she expected us to pitch in too. The Asheville Art Museum is better than ever thanks to a $24 million-renovation and expansion. On view through March 20! each year with the sec of state and could it be considered to be a conflict of interest for its executive director to be on the board of directors? I was interested in doing anything I could to help curate a temporary show. I cautioned you on direct contact with staff, Saenger wrote. Benites said he was terribly distressed by the incident at the party. More than two dozen former employees of the Asheville Art Museum have signed a letter calling for the removal of the longtime executive director and an end to what they describe as a culture of fear and toxic leadership., The letter, signed by 29 ex-staffers, said mistreatment of staff as reported by Asheville Watchdog requires the museums board to do their duty and remove Pam Myers immediately in order to protect the current and future health and viability of the Institution., An online petition also went up Tuesday morning, calling on artists to support the museum staff and Myerss removal, and start the process of reestablishing trust and transparency with our entire community.. Based on these articles, the museum board is composed and operating based on a friends and family and buddy system style approach that ensures most if not all members will agree to self protect each other and fend off critiques. Posted on 26 Feb in delores winans grandchildren. Its just troublemakers.. The Adult Studio program was popular as all of my classes were filled to overflowing. Healthy and productive debates are beneficial to any organization., Saenger also wrote that the board has complete confidence in Pam., This team, led by Pam, has built an outstanding institution, Saenger wrote. Instead, board member Benites made a motion that Michelle be removed from the board.. We want everyone to have access to our stories. Le'Kita Brown, Vice President. Employee complaints have been a source of discord on the museum board. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. The Museums galleries, theMuseum Store, andPerspective Caf are open to the public. Culture of Fear and Toxic Leadership Cited, Myers has been the focus of employee complaints. [1] We hope youll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. Myers, the museum's executive director for 27 years, declined to be interviewed by Asheville Watchdog. This is the inevitable -but alas very predictable- retribution for the curtain being pulled aside by the Asheville Watchdog expose. . Asheville Watchdog is a nonprofit news team producing stories that matter to Asheville and Buncombe County. Saenger responded, We do not believe it would be appropriate to share incident reports or security videos., Sarah Reincke, president of the Docents Association before Weitzman and a former trustee, said she believes the board was trying to find any excuse to rid themselves of a Trustee who consistently voiced valid opinions the Executive Committee refused to consider., Reincke said Weitzman was not the person who reprimanded Pam at the party, and she is not responsible for how another person expresses an opinion., The board used the actions of a third party as cause for Michelles dismissal, further proof, Reincke said, of the museums dysfunctional leadership., In a statement to Asheville Watchdog, Saenger wrote that the museum does not comment on trustees who leave the organization., If the board feels it necessary to ask a trustee to step down before the end of their normal term, it is not a matter we take lightly, but with the best interest of the museum in mind, Saenger wrote. At the Asheville Art Museum, the gift shop and the Front Desk were one and the same, meaning that those employees were front-facing and interacted with guests and served as the first impression to the Museum. Asked for comment, Benites wrote that after significant discussion the board had decided to have all communications be with the chair.. Krider said she felt the response to Lewis was not right and approached Myers a second time. Asheville Watchdog now seems to be on a vendetta. Saenger then polled the trustees. I wrote recommendations, and I was dismissed, so I went through proper channels before putting my name and my reputation in the public view, Weitzman said. She never responded. No one on that board even bothered to come to Michelles defense and say, Well, wait a minute. Roger McCredie January 8, 2015. A renovated and expanded museum opened in 2019 in a glass. The letters reveal snippets of daily life at the college, Johnsons experience of his growth as an artist, and early examples of Mail art, a movement that Johnson helped found. asheville art museum board of directors Nonprofit journalism in the public interest. Committees of the board include executive, finance, audit, and human resources. If there are additional episodes of improper staff involvement, I will bring this to the trustees to consider your continuing on the board., On Monday, Nov. 14, the day before Tuesdays board meeting, Saenger wrote to Weitzman, In accordance with the bylaws, I am giving you notice that given the inappropriate behavior when you and your companions verbally attacked and intimidated Pam and others at the members event I will request a discussion as to your continuing to serve on the AAM board. After the vote to remove Weitzman, Saenger said, I would just underscore that its just not appropriate to take things into your own hands. In the letter to the Trustees, the 29 ex-employees wrote that current and former staff want to reclaim our Museum an institution built by the community and for the community.. At the board meeting Tuesday, Benites said he was terribly, terribly upset by the incident. The fact that this has surfaced twice, she said, its not acceptable. Thats a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall. If so, its not a pretty picture. (828) 258-1262. moogseum.org. Why some people in the public would do this, she said, I think they have no standing. The Best of Asheville: Private 2.5-hour Walking Tour By Travel Curious - Asheville City Tours 2-3 hours Experience all that Asheville has to offer with a private 2.5-hour highlights tour led by an experienced local guide who Free cancellation from $170.00 per adult Reserve Travelers talk about " permanent collection " (10 reviews) " black mountain Late-night Thursdays until 9pm; closed Tuesdays. Myers, the museum's executive director for 27 years, declined to be interviewed by Asheville Watchdog. Stop making the executive director position a vanity position for an effective fundraiser, and assign the position to a real qualified director. Gary Cooper, Treasurer. Pottery by Eugene Since 1986 ceramic artists Rosa and Winton Eugene have created fine and functional pottery that often addresses important topics such as race. Why are so many who live here in the present so spineless? David Huff, one of five museum board members who resigned in the spring, said the trustees were doubling down by removing Weitzman. You said to me you will not stand down on this. But behind the facade, it gets ugly, an Asheville Watchdog investigation found. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. The Asheville Art Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, accredited by the American Alliance of Museums which receives support for its programs from Museum Members; other generous individuals, corporations, businesses, and foundations; the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources (www.NCArts.org); the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the primary source of federal support for the nations libraries and museums; and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency which believes that a great nation deserves great art. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Pictured: The Missoula Art Museum, whose Museum as Megaphone distance learning platform has provided access to arts education to rural and Tribal communities across Montana throughout the pandemic. The Bass Museum of Art opened in 1964 through the donation of a private collection by John and Johanna Bass to the City of Miami Beach. After the meeting, she sent an email to the docents, writing that she had been removed as a result of standing up for museum staff for the last year, within the Board of Trustees and most recently on record with the AVLWatchdog.org article., Nancy Ferguson, a 30-year museum volunteer and former trustee, told Asheville Watchdog, I was appalled to learn of Ms. Weitzmans dismissal. Today, more than 500 members serve on the Smithsonian's Advisory Boards. Could she have told you in a less harsh way? The artworks in this exhibition demonstrate the vibrant and varied approaches to pattern and decoration in art. Three of the board members who resigned in May, including Huff and Green, told The Watchdog the treatment of employees and the boards response was a factor in their decision to leave. The high attrition rate is simply bad business.. What happened to free First Wednesday admission to Asheville Art Museum? I argue they have one of the most important roles at the museumand similarly, in any guest-serving institutions. My experience was traumatic. We've recently sent you an authentication link. Stan Hastings, President. Krider said she told Myers, Why do you think you can just stonewall people who are really struggling to understand your role and some of whats been going on here? , According to Weitzman, Benites got defensive and said, I dont think this is appropriate, and Pam said, Im hosting a party. , Weitzman said Krider was shaking her finger at Myers but stopped when Myers asked her to. In 2005, the museum inaugurated its capital campaign artworks for Asheville to develop the new museum. Well certainly take everything you had to say to heart, Michelle, as we always have, Saenger said. The Asheville Art Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, accredited by the American Alliance of Museums that receives support for its programs from Museum Members; other generous individuals, corporations, businesses, and foundations; the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources (www.NCArts.org); the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the primary source of federal support for the nations libraries and museums; and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency that believes that a great nation deserves great art. But behind. Given these extreme circumstances and the weight of whats happening inside that museum, it is clear they are continuing to choose one person over the health of the institution, Reilly said. Board mem- A woman Weitzman identified as Lindsay Rosson, director of finance and operations at the museum, removed Kriders wine glass from her hand and asked her to leave, according to Weitzman, Krider and Lewis. She gives off a very let them eat cake! vibe. Ive kind of found myself in a situation of traveling and taking my work outside of the city to be able to make a living with it, and that is with the privilege of a university degree and a local culture that already privileges white artists., Maurer, 23, said UNCA trains students for a museum-centered career, but the museum caters to artists that are not based in Asheville and then takes that work and redirects it towards tourists., The museum was founded in 1948 by local artists. Opinion: Fewer restrictions on guns? It sounds like it is time for the board to put Pam in her place as successful fundraiser in chief and keep her away from the rest of the organization. Directions: 43 Patton Ave. Asheville, NC 28801. Pam Myers - Executive Director - Asheville Art Museum | LinkedIn Pam Myers Executive Director at Asheville Art Museum Asheville, North Carolina, United States 489 followers 483. Museum Members receive 12 months of free general admission. What is it with people these days? Weitzman was the only current trustee who agreed to be interviewed for the Watchdog investigative story and was quoted saying the museum looks really pretty on the outside. Emailing your doctor? Natural Collector October 19, 2022-April 24, 2023 But Zahler also referenced all the good work.. Sally Kestin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Email [emailprotected]. Furthermore, Hamills ignorant comments about gift shops being extraneous just goes to show that leadership and the people they surround themselves with do not understand how museums work. Warning: Information you find on this page may be outdated or incorrect. Sections will explore the history of pattern and decorations use in American art during and after the now formally recognized movement was established. Your email address will not be published. The work environment is beyond toxic, Huff and Green wrote in a 2021 summary. Given these extreme circumstances and the weight of whats happening inside that museum, it is clear they are continuing to choose one person over the health of the institution, Reilly said. But some trustees felt the board should do more, such as hire an administrator to run the day-to-day operations and free Myers to focus on fundraising and larger issues. so we have no idea how or whom to speak to when we dont want to speak to Pam; were talking about no on-boarding so if we do get it wrong and get berated, we had no way of preparing; were talking about a complete lack of trust and order from the top down (can you imagine if you start your job with your boss immediately mistrusting you and treating you like garbage? He said Weitzman had disrupted board meetings and had inappropriate communications with staff. The board has stood by Myers, 65, largely crediting her with raising $30 million in a capital campaign that spanned well over a decade. Subscribe to our free Asheville Watchdog news alerts. She helps wash dishes because theres no events support staff, and the Membership/Events Manager position has turned over three times (or left vacant for many months) in the last two years alone. After the vote to remove Weitzman, Saenger said, I would just underscore that its just not appropriate to take things into your own hands. After the meeting, Weitzman told Asheville Watchdog she believed her removal was retribution for challenging the museums leadership. executive director of the museum since 1995. Xpress needs help, too. Engaging, enlightening and inspiring individuals and enriching community through dynamic experiences in American art of the 20th and 21st centuries since 1948. ashevilleart.org SaveSave Does it have to come to that? We invite you to join us! Book effortlessly online with Tripadvisor! To view financial information and our governance, please visit our Finance and Governance page. All I can say is this is not the museum that I have known and loved for so long.. She returned to the group, and Lewis approached Myers. The Perspective Caf is kicking off 2023 with a classic bang! Probably very much like Ms. Myers. The Asheville Art Museum's vision is to transform lives through art. North Carolina museum exhibiting 20th century American art, Come have a drink and experiment with art materials while connecting with your community! But some trustees felt the board should do more, such as hire an administrator to run the day-to-day operations and free Myers to focus on fundraising and larger issues. Saenger responded, We do not believe it would be appropriate to share incident reports or security videos., Sarah Reincke, president of the Docents Association before Weitzman and a former trustee, said she believes the board was trying to find any excuse to rid themselves of a Trustee who consistently voiced valid opinions the Executive Committee refused to consider., Reincke said Weitzman was not the person who reprimanded Pam at the party, and she is not responsible for how another person expresses an opinion., The board used the actions of a third party as cause for Michelles dismissal, further proof, Reincke said, of the museums dysfunctional leadership., In a statement to Asheville Watchdog, Saenger wrote that the museum does not comment on trustees who leave the organization., If the board feels it necessary to ask a trustee to step down before the end of their normal term, it is not a matter we take lightly, but with the best interest of the museum in mind, Saenger wrote. It struck me at the time that it was odd she couldnt take five minutes to dash off a quick note. Boca Raton Museum of Art is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, religion, color, marital status, national origin, citizenship, creed, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation and/or gender identity, age, veteran status, mental or . @ Murphy Oakley Community Center and Library, @ Black Mountain, Leicester, Weaverville Libraries, Governor Cooper Encourages Eligible North Carolinians to Claim Earned Income Tax Credit, North Carolina Newborns Now Screened for Two Additional Disorders to Help Provide Early Diagnosis and Treatment, Recovering North Carolinas Bill of Rights, North Carolina Department of Insurance Negotiates Settlement on Dwelling Rate Request, The NCDOR Opens 2023 Individual Income Tax Season, Employment Agencies, Consultants & Businesses. where is the house in the carvana commercial. "We wanted the building to be . I liken this behavior to what the vandals are doing defacing the museum, Saenger said. Additional support is provided by the City of Asheville and Buncombe County. An enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Luzene Hill advocates for Indigenous sovereigntylinguistically, culturally, and individually. However, I have not taught a workshop nor class there in over a year. Those that dont agree to play that game will be made irrelevant or removed entirely. Weitzman was part of a group who had gathered on the second floor to talk when Krider, whom Weitzman said she had just met, said shed like to speak with Pam Myers, according to Weitzman. I see lawsuits as several laws appear to have been violated. Shes not above helping, but it doesnt erase her mismanagement its another highlight of insufficient staff support. The board twice brought in an executive coach, but staff complaints about Myerss management style persisted. Re: Comments from Hamill (donor) Krider said that she was disturbed by what she had read in the Watchdog story. We need your help to continue serving as a source of knowledge and inspiration during these uncertain times. It is a cornerstone in this art-rich town that we can all be very proud of.. Guess we are all just to make up our own minds based on the reporting and comments alone. Asheville Watchdog is a nonprofit news team producing stories that matter to Asheville and Buncombe County. Zahler mentioned an issue, an apparent reference to employee complaints about Myerss management dating to at least 2015. I love when TheRump ends with that you always know more bad news is inevitably on the way. Some face changes in governance within non-profit organizations and municipalities. Say to heart, Michelle, as we always have, Saenger said eat cake wait a.! Given all the board had decided to have all communications be with the chair interviewed. 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asheville art museum board of directors
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