AAMC Foundation

The AAMC Foundation, established in 2001, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the work of visual art curators within the nonprofit sector. It serves as an integral part of the Association of Art Museum Curators (AAMC), which includes over 1,300 members representing more than 500 institutions globally. The primary mission of the AAMC Foundation is to enhance public understanding of the curator's role in nonprofit settings through initiatives that foster networking, collaboration, and professional development.

History

The AAMC Foundation emerged from the Forum of Curators and Conservators at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), which consisted of over 100 members aiming to address staffing reorganizations in several major U.S. museums. Initiated by a committee in 1999, the organization was formally established in April 2001 during a meeting in New York attended by representatives from various American art museums. This foundational meeting introduced the AAMC as the first professional association specifically for curators, ensuring that their voices were recognized within important institutional discussions.

Mission and Objectives

The AAMC Foundation's principal objectives include:

• Celebrate and Advocate: The organization strives to celebrate and elevate the curatorial narrative, ensuring that curators receive acknowledgment and support in their professional endeavors.

• Professional Development: A key focus is providing leadership training and opportunities for networking among curators, enhancing their skills and resources in the nonprofit sector.

• Public Engagement: Through various programs and discussions, the foundation seeks to inform the public about the importance of curators in the arts community, thereby increasing visibility and relevance of curatorial work.

Programs and Initiatives

The foundation's activities encompass a range of programs designed to empower art curators, including:

• Art Curators Conference: An annual gathering that brings together curators to discuss current trends, challenges, and innovations in the field.

• Propel Program: A mentorship initiative aimed at mid-career curators to foster peer learning and professional growth.

• Professional Alliance for Curators of Color: A program designed to support curators of color by providing resources and networking opportunities.

The foundation also emphasizes principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging (DEIA/B) in all its initiatives, promoting a comprehensive understanding of diverse experiences and identities within the curatorial profession.

Financial Overview

As a registered 501(c)(3) organization, the AAMC Foundation relies predominantly on contributions, which constituted approximately 98.6% of its revenue in the fiscal year ending December 2023, totaling $618,569. The foundation is committed to transparency and responsible management of its financial resources, overseeing an annual budget that supports various programs while ensuring the sustainability of its operations.

Board of Directors

The AAMC Foundation is guided by a Board of Directors comprising leaders from notable museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, J. Paul Getty Museum, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This diverse board plays a crucial role in shaping the direction and strategy of the organization.

Conclusion

The AAMC Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the interests of art curators and promoting the value of their work within the nonprofit sector. Through its initiatives and commitment to professional development, the foundation aims to foster a vibrant and inclusive community of curators who can effectively navigate the complexities of the art world.