COVES Art Bridges Convening
Dates: August 4–6, 2026
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Participants explored how museums can move beyond collecting data to use it as a tool for understanding, storytelling, and organizational growth. Through discussions with museum leaders, peer case studies, and interactive workshops, they examined strategies to advocate for evaluation, communicate visitor insights, and translate COVES into institutional action.
Works in Progress: Defining the Art of Wellness in Museums
Dates: April 29–May 1, 2026
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Bringing together museum leaders and leading voices in art and wellness, participants exchanged ideas, took part in workshops, and developed initiatives designed to advance community well-being through meaningful connections with art. As part of the experience, participating institutions received a curated selection of artworks from the Art Bridges Partner Loan Network at no cost, along with $50,000 in funding to develop and implement tailored art and wellness programs over a two-year period.
Aligning Standards with Mission: A New Framework for Sustainable Lending
Dates: April 7–8, 2026
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Museum leaders, conservators, and sustainability experts came together to examine one of the field’s most pressing tensions: the balance between preservation and public access. As institutions deepen their commitment to serving communities, long-standing environmental standards — particularly those related to climate control — can limit the sharing of collections while increasing costs and carbon impact. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, participants explored how evidence-based, risk-informed conservation approaches can evolve to better align with museums’ public missions, opening new possibilities for access without compromising the care of works of art.
Works in Progress: Defining the Art of Wellness in Museums
Dates: October 2025
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Six museums committed to advancing community health through programming came together to explore the role of art in supporting community well-being.
Art Unbound: Rethinking Art Accessibility & Management
Dates: April 2024
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
In an era marked by climate change — and with advances in technology, limited storage for artworks, and a growing focus on community impact — we encouraged attendees to think deeply about the role and responsibilities of museums to both our collections and communities. A palpable energy filled the room, as we discussed innovative approaches to collections care and art management that prioritize collaboration, accessibility, and a positive social and environmental impact. This playlist contains recorded sessions and findings.
Learning & Engagement Convening
Dates: Summer 2023
Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Participants explored strategies for building community connections through Learning & Engagement projects.
