Welcome note from our president
Dear colleagues:
As we grapple with the impact of the global economic crisis, it is even more critical that our institutions deliver a meaningful visitor experience. Traditionally we have focused on collecting and presenting the "tangible" whether these were works of art, natural history specimens or cultural artefacts. Recently, we have included an understanding of the "intangibles;" of traditional knowledge and cultural practice as essential to a full spectrum of content and experience.
The CMA's 63rd national conference will feature exemplary work in historic sites, parks, museums and art galleries that fulfill our traditional mandate. As a highlight of the conference, we will be placing a special focus on intangible cultural heritage (ICH), providing a forum for discussion of practical approaches through which museums can creatively link people and places in order to inspire meaning.
Contributors include recognized individuals on the cultural, journalistic and political scenes. Select from a diverse range of educational sessions that will provide you with the tools and strategies you need to stay on top of your game in this challenging and ever-changing environment.
Come discover one of the oldest cities in North America; a city unlike any other, cradled in a harbour carved from 500 million year-old rock and surrounded by hills, quaint side streets of a thousand colours and friendly faces waiting to greet you. Come take a journey to the City of Legends: where old and new, city and nature, live as neighbours.
Please join me, my fellow board members and the volunteer planning committee at St. John's 2010!
We look forward to welcoming you!
Jon Tupper
President
Canadian Museums Association