The first new mission statement for WAM in several decades,
this simple sentence represents the heart and soul of what the staff and Board
strive to accomplish at the Museum every day.
The process of writing the new mission statement took
several months. A dedicated group of staff and trustees dug deeply to answer
four basic questions:-- What does the Worcester Art Museum contribute?
-- Who does it serve?
-- How does it deliver?
-- Why is this important?
During the journey to a new mission statement, we asked more
questions; defined beliefs, values, and principles for the Museum; and worked
hard to articulate what its role and responsibilities are to the public and its
collection. The process was demanding,
but also exhilarating and tremendously rewarding.
We discovered that the Museum’s wonderful collection is not
only a world treasure, but also a catalyst for building community. Everything
we do at WAM—from exhibitions and programs to accessibility and
outreach—connects individuals, communities, and cultures through the experience
of art. This is so important, because as
the universal language, art can be understood and enjoyed by anyone—regardless
of background, knowledge, or physical abilities. Indeed, for some people, such as those with
brain injuries, art is their only form of communication. Art thus functions as a kind of “social glue”
that unites human beings with each other.I am tremendously proud of the Worcester Art Museum’s mission, and I look forward to working with the Board and Museum staff to ensure it remains our focus in all we do.
-Lisa Kirby Gibbs, President of the Board of Trustees