2014 marks a new beginning for The Mint Museum as we continue to address the growing needs of the community we serve.
Happy New Year to you! 2014 marks a new beginning for The Mint Museum as we continue to address the growing needs of the community we serve. It is also a time for reflection on all that has been accomplished this past year and all we hope to achieve in the future. I must acknowledge the Mint’s amazing staff. I am honored and humbled to lead such a dedicated, passionate, and talented team.
Art transforms lives and we delight in our ability to inspire and engage diverse audiences across the region. Less than two weeks remain to see Inventing the Modern World: Decorative Arts at the World’s Fairs, 1851-1939 – our blockbuster exhibition of 2013. Please make a point to visit between now and January 19 for a rare glimpse at over 200 extraordinary works of art created especially for World’s Fairs that will never again be assembled together, anywhere in the world. It has been a true privilege to bring this breathtaking show to Charlotte and we look forward to creating more innovative and high-quality experiences this coming year.
Mint Museum Randolph continues to serve as an important part of our story. We currently have an exceptional exhibition on view entitled Bearing Witness: The New York Photo League and Sonia Handelman Meyer. Please take the time to see this Mint-organized show and learn about the history of this amazing group and its profound influence on photography as an art form. We will have a robust roster of exhibitions, happenings, camps, and classes at Randolph in 2014 including The Mint Museum’s Inaugural Spring Gala, entitled “Celebrating American Classics,” on May 10 on the front lawn. Tickets are already on sale at mintmuseum.org/gala, so we hope you will plan to be part of the fun! As we continue to shape an even more vibrant future for this beloved landmark, rest assured that Randolph is an essential and strategic priority for us. Our commitment to preserving and enhancing this cultural jewel has never been stronger. Thousands of visitors, supporters, and affiliates continue to use and embrace this precious treasure in earnest and we hope you will, too.
On March 1, at Mint Museum Uptown, everything will be coming up roses with the opening of Allure of Flowers: Botanical Motifs in Craft, Design, & Fashion. Inspired by the forms, colors, and textures of the botanical world, artists from across the globe have interpreted individual flowers, bouquets, and gardens in glass, ceramic, textile, and jewelry design. This exhibition is just one small example of our continued commitment to Craft + Design at the Mint. This international collection is one of our strongest assets. It has been, and will be, essential to our continued growth and success. In fact, the 15th anniversary of the opening of the Mint Museum of Craft + Design takes place this Friday, January 10, 2014 – a significant point of pride for our institution.
Finally, on March 29, our uptown location will proudly serve as host – and first stop on its national tour – of National Geographic’s Women of Vision: National Geographic Photographers on Assignment. Women of Vision features nearly 100 photographs highlighting the influential work of 11 award-winning female photojournalists. Visitors will also have an opportunity to learn how National Geographic magazine picture editors work closely with the photographers to select images and tell a story. These inspiring women and their stories are a “must-see” experience for visitors of all ages.
We approach 2014 with enthusiasm, renewed energy, and unbridled excitement. We have been overwhelmed by the groundswell of support from our community and are truly grateful for your generous patronage. Thank you for supporting our mission and for spreading the good word on the Mint’s positive impact in Charlotte and beyond. We look forward to enchanting and impressing you with the power of art for many new years to come.
Warmest wishes,