From the Director

The subject of creativity, always on the minds of those of us in the museum enterprise, is lately gaining currency in broader conversations on neuroscience, technology, and education theory. Over the summer, the Newsweek story The Creativity Crisis (July 10, 2010) outlined the decline of American creativity and how creativity—the synthesis of divergent and convergent thinking—can be taught. Researchers now believe that the lack of creativity in young people is a risk factor and that "Creativity isn't about freedom from concrete facts. Rather, fact-finding and deep research are vital stages in the creative process." All of which reminds us of the special role that the arts and the academy can play in developing vital, complex creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Here at the Museum, our exhibitions and multidisciplinary programs and events are designed by our curatorial and education staff to encourage and cultivate new pathways, experiences, and convergences for all of our audiences. This is what we mean when we refer to UMMA as a cultural meeting place and town hall for the twenty-first century.

Of particular note this early winter season are three concerts organized with the UM School of Music, Theatre, and Dance as musical corollaries to exhibitions and objects on view—Kurtág's Kafka Fragments, a modernist masterpiece; works inspired by literary narratives performed by the UM Contemporary Directions Ensemble; and Bach's iconic Brandenburg Concertos. These programs are in addition to presenting a wealth of other events, including outstanding artists, curators, and writers talking about their work; our monthly jazz series; the Dance on Camera festival; art-making opportunities; and tours for every taste.

Please also be sure to visit the two extraordinary contemporary exhibitions on view currently—Mai-Thu Perret: An Ideal for Living and UMMA Projects: Simon Dybbroe Møller. They wonderfully reinforce the Museum's growing reputation as an important presenter of global contemporary practices.

I look forward to seeing you in the galleries this winter.

Warmest regards,

Joseph Rosa
Director

back to top