The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs has announced a new exhibition at the Museum of International Folk Art (MOIFA) titled "Staff Picks: Favorites from the Collection." The exhibition will showcase a diverse range of works, handpicked by the museum's staff from its permanent collection, reflecting an extensive spectrum of aesthetics.
According to a press release by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, this first-ever exhibition curated by all museum staff is set to open on Feb. 25. It will feature 70 artworks selected by 35 staff members from the permanent collection, offering a unique insight into pieces often stored away and rarely seen by either the public or even the museum staff.
Rachel Cover, curator of this exhibition, said according to the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, "'Staff Picks: Favorites from the Collection,' a title we voted on, is an exhibition formulated with the intention of inclusivity and togetherness among the people who care for the museum every day." She further explained that in curating this exhibition, each staff member was consulted based on their individual expertise. They were allowed to browse through the collection’s storage areas and select two artworks they wished to display, along with providing statements explaining their choices.
In discussing the motivation behind this unique approach to curation, Charlie Lockwood, MOIFA executive director stated according to the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, "We wanted to share the passion and individuality of our staff, revealing the works that have left a lasting impact on each of us. This exhibition is a testament to the vibrant creativity within our walls and often-profound connections our team has with the collection."
The Museum of International Folk Art was founded by Florence Dibell Bartlett with an aim to foster appreciation for culture and craft from diverse countries. According to information provided on its About webpage, through its collection and programming efforts, MOIFA seeks to create connections between folk art and tradition across all timelines, fostering an educational atmosphere.