Aligning Standards Convening - April 2026
Held April 7–8, 2026, at the Heartland Whole Health Institute in Bentonville, Arkansas, this convening brought together museum leaders, conservators, and sustainability experts 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 around climate control—have continued to 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, unlocking new possibilities for access without compromising the care of works of art.
Art Unbound Playlist
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.
