“I've known rivers, ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins.” Langston Hughes, 1921

The Association of African American Museums invites proposals for presentations for the 2010 Annual Conference to be held August 4-7, 2010 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, hosted by the August Wilson Center for African American Culture. Inspired by renowned poet Langston Hughes, I’ve Known Rivers: Presenting African American Arts, Culture & History explores efforts by metropolitan museums and cultural institutions to preserve and present the ancient through contemporary African American history and arts. Whether large or small, these institutions have been the catalyst for cultural and historical preservation throughout their regions.

As we move further into the twenty-first century, we are challenged by the question of whether metropolitan institutions, such as museums, cultural arts centers and archives can sustain and impact the growth and development of regional culture in this tough economic climate. What are strategies for survival in metropolitan centers? How have recent exhibitions managed to combine new and existing historical research with an ever-changing technology, while maintaining the integrity of the individual, the story and the craft? African American museums often bear the responsibility of balancing best museum practices with the need to preserve and interpret vital historical and cultural events. Proposals should address the conference theme and include innovative approaches to interpreting regional arts, history and culture, while emphasizing metropolitan museums and cultural institutions.

Listed below are suggested themes for session proposals:

How do you research, define and understand your target audience?

What are the latest trends in exhibition development and design for historic themes and theatrical and fine arts? What models exist for innovative educational community-based projects & programs?

How do institutions begin the process of developing a collections management plan? What models exist which best address current collections storage challenges?

How do institutions begin the process of developing and understanding successful organizational structures? How are we design/develop position descriptions which best define the job?

What are effective strategies for cultural institutions to successfully engage support from city officials? What is the profile of an effective board? How does board selection and participation impact continued growth of our institutions?

What models exist for effective economic strategies for cultural institutions? How do institutions successfully fundraise and conduct capital campaigns during a recession?

How do institutions develop successful historic preservation projects for urban landscapes?

Future Trends for Museums

How “green” is your institution? How does your institution begin the process of embracing “greener” practices?

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Download the 2010AAAM Annual Conference Call for Proposals by clicking here.

Save a stamp and email your completed proposal by downloading the fill-in application. Select the "Call for Proposals (Word)" from the list of forms on the right. Remember - the submission deadline is March 1, 2010.