Read more about our Capital Campaign effort. The Asheville Symphony Sessions; 2021 Virtual Concert Series; News & Press; ASO Radio; Education. An account was already registered with this email. After the meeting, Weitzman told Asheville Watchdog she believed her removal was retribution for challenging the museums leadership. I never heard anyone speak with such divine right, Krider said. Benites said he was terribly distressed by the incident at the party. I will ask for your dismissal as a board member and museum volunteer.. Mark-Ellis Bennett The board has stood by Myers, 65, largely crediting her with raising $30 million in a capital campaign that spanned well over a decade. Artists for Asheville started this petition Two recent articles in the Asheville Watchdog have exposed how Pam Myers, Executive Director of the Asheville Art Museum, has routinely mistreated Museum staff during her tenure, creating a culture of fear, retaliation, and high attrition that has twice been brought to the Museum's Board of Trustees. I was docent president at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and because of this had a seat on the board. For immediate assistance or general inquiries, please call 828.253.3227. Hoping AAM administrators will learn from the internal and external feedback and make changes for the good of their employees and the city. I recently found out that more than one employee that filed for unemployment during Covid (which the museum accepted) later had lawsuits filed against them by Lindsay and Pam to repay all the money they received because the museum forced everyone to work (many in person in the office) through the beginning of Covid leaving folks with kids, elderly and disabled with no way of earning money. Weitzman was the only current trustee who agreed to be interviewed for the Watchdoginvestigative story and was quoted saying the museum looks really pretty on the outside. Learn More{{/message}}. MakerSpace: Third Thursday with Artist Aspen Johnston. CEO expert in marketing/PR, global fundraising authority, streaming Exec. I suspect these actions will anger and incite resignations among the docents organization , an essential AAM support group as they learn how their chosen leader and representative was treated. On view November 18 through March 20! Krider said she felt the response to Lewis was not right and approached Myers a second time. Few outside the museum noticed when, this spring, five board members one-fourth of the trustees resigned. Stop wagging your finger, didnt even notice I was doing it., Krider said all Weitzman did was tell me where Pam was standing and repeat something she had already apparently said that working for her is really difficult or however she worded it.. Thank you for registering!Please visit My Account to verify and manage your account. I am aghast at some of the comments on the recent articles, as well as those from current AAM board members. She said that former employees had told her, unsolicited, that they were still experiencing nightmares, PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] and continual therapy from their experience working at the museum. The Asheville Art Museum's vision is to transform lives through art. As a long term Asheville Art Museum member, donor, former volunteer, former Gallery Associate, and current Adult Studio instructor, I am little more than an outside observer to the day to day operations of the museum so this story has been revealing. The high handed kicking her off of the board and a docent and as the representative of the docents sets in motion disastrous community relations problems. Not only the board of the art museum, but many other institutions do not have the least consideration of the rest of the population, and refuse to hear any input, particularly if its negative to their established order. Krider said she asked Myers about the Watchdog story, and Myers declined to discuss it, saying, according to Krider, Youre in my house.. Im hopeful you will stand up and see that while your efforts are to you for the good of the museum, they are proving counterproductive. Open Wednesdays 11am6pm | Reserve tickets now. She urged her fellow trustees to ask for Myerss resignation and to find a new executive director. Benites said he was terribly distressed by the incident at the party. In addition to teaching violin and piano at AMS on a part-time basis since 2008, she has been a performing musician for over 35 years. Please show Pam Myers and a few of her board minions to the door. Jun 17, 2022 - Anonymous Employee in Asheville, NC Recommend CEO Approval Business Outlook Pros My colleagues at the Museum were supportive, creative, and truly nice people. I have also strictest the hell museum off my to do and support list. Few outside the museum noticed when, this spring, five board members one-fourth of the trustees resigned. Which, come to think of it might be precisely what it is ;) anyhoo Stay Tuned!! DIGITAL EXHIBITION: Dear Lorna, Love Ray features letters written by Ray Johnson to Lorna Blaine Halper while Johnson was a student at Black Mountain College. Weitzman was the only current trustee who agreed to be interviewed for the Watchdog investigative story and was quoted saying the museum looks really pretty on the outside. Imperious , high handed acts rarely work well. The Museum is located on the center square of downtown Asheville, 2 South Pack Square at Pack Place. The Museum was founded in 1948, and we've had many wonderful years of growth. She described the board as hand-picked and curated supporters of Myers, who has been director of the museum for 27 years. All voted in favor of removing Weitzman. Its not even just about the people who work there who were hurt by someones tactics and approach, Krider said. [Show slideshow] Gallery / Gift Shop Museums Craft Trails. Please check your inbox for an authentication link. I cautioned you on direct contact with staff, Saenger wrote. Big changes happened in the Museum building during our major expansion and renovation project right in the heart of downtown Asheville. I tried to stand in front of Pam. Given these extreme circumstances and the weight of whats happening inside that museum, it is clear they are continuing to choose one person over the health of the institution, Reilly said. The Asheville Art Museum is the sole museum to garner three Southeastern Museums Conference (SEMC) Exhibition Awards in the 2022 competition! What I find to be the most concerning is the salary of the director at approximately $167,000 of taxpayer funds. If so, time for a review/investigation to assist the Board in seeing the light? She described the board as hand-picked and curated supporters of Myers, who has been director of the museum for 27 years. [1] The board has stood by Myers, 65, largely crediting her with raising $30 million in a capital campaign that spanned well over a decade. I see lawsuits as several laws appear to have been violated. I hardly said anything. North Carolina museum exhibiting 20th century American art. I, and another board member, opposed the contract because of the directors extreme salary and benefits while maintaining a toxic working environment ($242K this year with a $35K bonus if shes still here next month). Your involvement is essential, now and in the future. I must say I second Nancy Fergusons comment. We understand, the web can be a dangerous place! Leave, I did. Krider told Asheville Watchdog she did not threaten anyone. Im sorry that having a frank conversation that you didnt want to have seemed like an attack. An outspoken member of the Asheville Art Museums board, the only current trustee to speak publicly about employee complaints of mistreatment, was ousted from the board Tuesday and removed as a museum volunteer. Newark Liberty International Airport (IATA: EWR, ICAO: KEWR, FAA LID: EWR), originally Newark Metropolitan Airport and later Newark International Airport, is an international airport straddling the boundary between the cities of Newark in Essex County and Elizabeth in Union County, New Jersey.Located about 4.5 miles (7.2 km) south of downtown Newark, it is a major gateway to points in Europe . Once again, the wealthy establishment of Asheville shows that they will brook no questioning of their divine right to rule. Open Wednesdays 11am6pm | Reserve tickets now. Apparently they built Pams house and thats all we need to know. And Im sorry to say, Michelle, youre no longer on the board. The Asheville Art Museum's vision is to transform lives through art. We fully believe in its vision to transform lives through art. Open Wednesdays 11am6pm | Reserve tickets now. A few wine-drunk, middle-aged ladies bickering back and forth is the most hostile situation youve ever been in? Theyre not hearing. If there are additional episodes of improper staff involvement, I will bring this to the trustees to consider your continuing on the board., On Monday, Nov. 14, the day before Tuesdays board meeting, Saenger wrote to Weitzman, In accordance with the bylaws, I am giving you notice that given the inappropriate behavior when you and your companions verbally attacked and intimidated Pam and others at the members event I will request a discussion as to your continuing to serve on the AAM board. Having said that, my guess is that this situation will not end well for Meyers or the board if the current direction continues. The work environment is beyond toxic, Huff and Green wrote in a 2021 summary. Deja vu all over again! Simply give us a . Instead, board member Benites made a motion that Michelle be removed from the board.. Weitzman pressed on after Saenger became the chair, asking for more information on employee complaints, staff exit interviews, and the executive coach that had been brought in for Myers and senior leaders, emails show. Has Pam done anything unethical or illegal? Without it we get a situation like this. They garnered support from the city, county, and other government sources for renovation, but tax payer dollars do not have a stake in year to year operations to my knowledge. What art museum does not have a lead curator? Thank you for supporting the arts! Employee complaints have been a source of discord on the museum board. Once the building housed just two organizations, the umbrella organization that operated the building was eliminated, and the existing organizations had direct leases with the City that County support was phased out over a few years. Weitzman said at the meeting she was being punished for standing up against the mistreatment of employees. asheville art museum board of directors. We hope youll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. Lewis said that Myers told her, Now is not the time, but did not say when she would be available to speak. They orchestrated it all., Weitzman had volunteered at the museum since 2016 and held a seat on the board as president of the Docents Association. January 23, 2020 POSSIBLE REASONS BEHIND STUDENT VISA REJECTION. I wrote recommendations, and I was dismissed, so I went through proper channels before putting my name and my reputation in the public view, Weitzman said. The patron was in her face, not me., Were clear, Saenger replied. To provide an open, supportive work environment where Staff can thrive. But that is how privilege rolls. For what it is worth, my observation is that departmental staff come and go frequently. Weitzman pressed on after Saenger became the chair, asking for more information on employee complaints, staff exit interviews, and the executive coach that had been brought in for Myers and senior leaders, emails show. A renovated and expanded museum opened in 2019 in a glass. It looks like you're using ad blocking technology. New Address: 12710 Research Blvd. They dont want to hear. We are the only nonprofit visual arts museum serving all 24 counties in Western North Carolina. Is there a record of how many employees have quit over the past 3-5 years? She said that former employees had told her, unsolicited, that they were still experiencing nightmares, PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] and continual therapy from their experience working at the museum. Ste.230, Austin TX 78759 Store Cart ; Toggle search Toggle navigation. I would like to also point out that the Museum has not had an official Curator since shortly after reopening in 2019. And at what cost to the employees? Kids under 15 should be allowed in at no cost if art is to be advanced now the fee is $10 for those same aged kids. Great coverage, thanks for exposing the toxic environment. The salary is probably in line with what other people at that level get paid, and Im sure that there are more than enough private donations to cover her salary so that no tax-payer dollars are used. Krider, according to Weitzman, continued with her rant about a terrible way to run an organization.. Staff & Board | Asheville Area Arts Council Staff Katie Cornell Executive Director 828.222.0436 katie@ashevillearts.com Bringing people together through the arts is Katie's passion, and that is just what she tries to do as the Executive Director of the Asheville Area Arts Council. The word used by three former staff is traumatic. , Kevin Click, the board vice-chair and a former human resources executive, said in a written response to questions from Asheville Watchdog that Myers has been very positive about the coaching and feedback she is receiving.. All I can say is this is not the museum that I have known and loved for so long.. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The directors autocratic management style is well-known. The Museums staff and board of trustees want to hear from you. Weitzman said at the meeting she was being punished for standing up against the mistreatment of employees. A majority of the museum's board has remained steadfast to Myers, the museum's director since 1995, despite complaints by former employees in 2015 and again in 2021. Employee complaints have been a source of discord on the museum board. Thats absurd, Krider said. The entire Board is failing to uphold its responsibility and purpose by not taking the Museum employees and their advocates as their first priority. At some point words need to translate into both action and changed behavior, not just more words. Something needs to be done now. Who did they support? Our mission is to encourage young professionals across industries to learn, support, and ultimately invest in diverse and . Myers, the museum's executive director for 27 years, declined to be interviewed by Asheville Watchdog. Weitzman responded that she attempted a group effort and failed. He then deferred to trustee Gary Zahler, who joined the virtual meeting late. Krider said she felt the response to Lewis was not right and approached Myers a second time. Asheville Watchdog spoke separately with Weitzman, Lewis, and Krider the day after the event. We uphold anti-oppressive and equitable practices, while striving to create opportunities for education and action to build a stronger community. We need ethical and compassionate leadership from the Executive Director and Board. Sally Kestin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter. The board twice brought in an executive coach, but staff complaints about Myers's management style persisted. My heart goes out to Ms. Weitzman. Chloe O'Laughlin, Harris Publishing. Proudly powered by Newspack by Automattic. It was not an attack.. This is a story with more questions to explore and report on. The Asheville Art Museum Collectors' Circle held their seventh annual selection dinner on January 17, 2011. Two recent articles in the Asheville Watchdog have exposed how Pam Myers, Executive Director of the Asheville Art Museum, has routinely mistreated Museum staff during her tenure, creating a culture of fear, retaliation, and high attrition that has twice been brought to the Museums Board of Trustees. There are many ways that you can become involved and be a part of this extraordinary community endeavor. The board may be putting itself at risk by not taking more concrete action given that what has been done so far appears to be ineffective, nice words but little effect. I had a very disappointing and surprising interaction with Ms. Myers many years ago, when I brought about 30 tribal childrens paintings from India, which I thought she might be interested in as they were part of an initiative to train gifted children to carry on Warli Tribal painting traditions. Thats a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall. Asheville Watchdog spoke separately with Weitzman, Lewis, and Krider the day after the event. I cautioned you on direct contact with staff, Saenger wrote. When we visited, there was a temporary exhibit of recently donated Southern Folk Art (think: the ubiquitous and prolific Howard Finster and unschooled artists such as Finster), and a collection of modernist design from the mid-20th. Wish I had a membership so I could cancel it! We want everyone to have access to our stories. This. I tried to stand in front of Pam. It is up to staff and board to assess and address Museum health and not be complacent. Saenger responded in an Aug. 9 email that while it is important that trustees are informed as to staffing needs, etc., personal details are restricted by state and federal policy.. Saenger responded, We do not believe it would be appropriate to share incident reports or security videos., Sarah Reincke, president of the Docents Association before Weitzman and a former trustee, said she believes the board was trying to find any excuse to rid themselves of a Trustee who consistently voiced valid opinions the Executive Committee refused to consider., Reincke said Weitzman was not the person who reprimanded Pam at the party, and she is not responsible for how another person expresses an opinion., The board used the actions of a third party as cause for Michelles dismissal, further proof, Reincke said, of the museums dysfunctional leadership., In a statement to Asheville Watchdog, Saenger wrote that the museum does not comment on trustees who leave the organization., If the board feels it necessary to ask a trustee to step down before the end of their normal term, it is not a matter we take lightly, but with the best interest of the museum in mind, Saenger wrote. Xpress needs help, too. Saenger then polled the trustees. The GCMA will continue to be closed while it completes several planned building projects. I was active in the discussions during the founding of Pack Place and have been a close observer and frequent critic of the Asheville Art Museum since the Civic Center basement days. Asheville, NC 28801 Mailing Address PO Box 1717 Asheville, NC 28802-1717 Phone 828.253.3227 Art Inquiries For exhibition proposals, information about artworks, or artwork donations, click here for more information. Please check the salaries of public school principals in Asheville and Buncombe County for comparison. from the museum in Asheville. Krider said she asked Myers about the Watchdog story, and Myers declined to discuss it, saying, according to Krider, Youre in my house.. The board has stood by Myers, 65, largely crediting her with raising $30 million in a capital campaign that spanned well over a decade. The Museums galleries, theMuseum Store, andPerspective Caf are open to the public. The museum held a member appreciation party Nov. 10, the day after the Watchdog story appeared. The museum held a member appreciation party Nov. 10, the day after the Watchdogstory appeared. Sounds like fish is in fact rotting from the head down. Certainly should not be punished for it ! An Asheville Museum of Artwork board member and volunteer docent who spoke publicly about allegations of worker mistreatment at the museum has been ousted from her submit, the Asheville Watchdog claimed. Right so lets get the courts involved here since the Board there at the glass palace/ fortress has shown itself incapable of anything but a bunker mentality in regard to this -gone on way too long- travesty. As Asheville Watchdog reported, the board has twice brought in an executive coach in 2015 after the six complaints to trustees, and again in 2021 after eight other ex-staffers voiced their concerns to Huff and board member Darren Green. The Asheville Art Museum's facility at 2 South Pack Square. Last week, the letters in the museums sign were altered from Asheville Art Museum to A He ll Art Museum. Asheville Police spokesperson Samantha Booth said Wednesday she could not locate a police report on the vandalism. Can I help pay off kids school lunch debts? Three of the board members who resigned in May, including Huff and Green, told The Watchdog the treatment of employees and the boards response was a factor in their decision to leave. The work environment is beyond toxic, Huff and Green wrote in a 2021 summary. I cautioned you on direct contact with staff, Saenger wrote. Were pretty sure that you know journalism faces big challenges these days. I dont do this lightly, said Paul Saenger, chair of the museums Board of Trustees, according to a recording of the board meeting obtained by Asheville Watchdog. Admission is now $15 for two floors of art as the second floor just has a children's hands on art room. The Asheville Art Museum in Downtown Asheville is an excellent experience for any visitor and local resident. Krider said that she was disturbed by what she had read in the Watchdog story. She and other current board members, as well as past board . Late-night Thursdays until 9pm; closed Tuesdays. Being good at one thing (raising money) does not mean you are good at everything. Inappropriate behavior? 'I Look at Her as a Hero' Kerry Martin, Community Volunteer. Based on these articles, the museum board is composed and operating based on a friends and family and buddy system style approach that ensures most if not all members will agree to self protect each other and fend off critiques. Established by artists in 1948, Asheville Art Museum works to transform lives through art. Benites said he was terribly distressed by the incident at the party. The Asheville Art Museum is a private nonprofit 501c3 (not public). This is what was decided seven years ago, and it is the same today.. I would hope that they have more skills and resources to deal with conflict than exclusion. GREENSBORO, N.C. - The Greensboro College Department of Art presents Kenn Kotara's exhibition, "social geometries," Oct. 15-Nov. 15 in the Anne Rudd Galyon Gallery, and the Irene Cullis Galley in the Cowan Humanities Building on campus. This should be more a group effort.. Wonder if the job description for director of finance and operations includes wine glass removal. I have never forgotten this episode. After the vote to remove Weitzman, Saenger said, I would just underscore that its just not appropriate to take things into your own hands. Well certainly take everything you had to say to heart, Michelle, as we always have, Saenger said. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. However, I have not taught a workshop nor class there in over a year. Do Pam Myers and the museum have any self-awareness at all? In all of my life, Ive never been in a situation where there was such hostility, and I actually felt physically threatened, Benites said. Does Pam have the museum board over a barrel, given all the board member remarks about all the money she brings in? Some people are really great at certain functions. whichhe continued to create over the course of his career as an art director and into his personal work after retirement. Sally Kestin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Email [emailprotected]. Its a shame to the city to continue to support these overly entitled people. From Asheville Watchdog: Trustee who criticized director is ousted from art museum board, Around Town: Literary series will focus on trees, nature in Jewish poetry, Local artists explore symbolism in new exhibit, Local creatives speak to the power of comedy, Green in brief: Conserving Carolina to expand Bracken Mountain Preserve, From AVL Watchdog: Information about holiday water failures is trickling out, as Asheville officials meet in private, Council to vote on water review committee Jan. 10, Deadline to submit writing & art for Xpress Kids Issues approaching, From Asheville Watchdog: City Council, mayor and staff hold closed-door meetings, sowing distrust, Early traffic woes spark updates to Ashevilles trolley system, 1923-24, From CPP: The uncertain future of old-growth forests in North Carolina, part four, City school board OKs Asheville Primary shelter plan, Green in brief: Asheville protects land at Mills River water plant. Youre no longer a volunteer.. That Myers has brought in a lot of funding is great. Krider told Asheville Watchdog she did not threaten anyone. Enrich your involvement with the Museum by joining our vibrant family of Members. Approved by Board of Directors: January 2014. Employee complaints have been a source of discord on the museum board. Lewis said Benites intervened, defending Myers. It is an age old story. My long time experience with organizations tells me that this situation will fester and not go away. We need your help to continue serving as a source of knowledge and inspiration during these uncertain times. Youre no longer a volunteer.. "I don't do this lightly," said Paul Saenger, chair of the museum's Board of Trustees, according to a recording of the board . Never miss an update by signing up for our free Watchdog News Alerts, delivered directly to your inbox. The Museum presents a robust schedule of engaging exhibitions featuring American art of the 20th and 21st centuries. To view financial information and our governance, please visit our Finance and Governance page. Weitzman said a museum patron, Monica Krider, had wanted to share her thoughts with Pam about the Watchdog story. It is up to our community of artists and supporters of the arts to speak up and advocate for our institution and its health, and insist on the Board and especially Ms. Myers resignation. At the board meeting Tuesday, Benites said he was terribly, terribly upset by the incident. Saenger then polled the trustees. Board of Directors. After an exodus of five Board members this summer, the remaining members have not yet shown that they value Museum staff above the reputation of Myers. After getting a million or more from the City, is the Art Museum still enjoying public funding? If not, there is the sound of inevitability in this story of potentially escalating to a whole new level, with a lot more attention than the museum or board would appreciate. A renovated and expanded museum opened in 2019 in a glass building that is now a landmark downtown, and the museum has an endowment of more than $6 million. To schedule a group tour please contact us at info@blackmountaincollege.org. She said the foundation of the museum was not its collections but rather the people who make the everyday possible. Saenger told Asheville Watchdog that as far as he knew, the museum, established in 1948, had never removed a trustee. In all of my life, Ive never been in a situation where there was such hostility, and I actually felt physically threatened, Benites said. Weitzman responded that she attempted a group effort and failed. This is no joke. And AAM gets that money whether or not students go. I think this cancel culture has gone so totally out of control, and I think thats exactly what Michelle is dealing with, Zahler said, not recognizing the fact that all the good work that had gone on before, that there was an issue, and because of that, Pam should be canceled. Museum Members receive 12 months of free general admission. I wouldnt say UNCA students can afford it, but I also bet they dont actually get in for free I bet UNCA has a deal with AAM and pays a set amount per year for students to access it. This should be more a group effort.. Healthy and productive debates are beneficial to any organization., Saenger also wrote that the board has complete confidence in Pam., This team, led by Pam, has built an outstanding institution, Saenger wrote. Glad to see the board has had enough of the mean girls behavior. The majority of current and former employees could share profusely regarding Pams managerial style. It was just very upsetting to me.. To connect with us, please visit our Contact page. But Zahler also referenced all the good work.. Established by artists and incorporated in 1948, the Museum is committed to being a vital force in community and individual development and to providing lifelong opportunities for education and enrichment through the visual arts. Krider said that she was disturbed by what she had read in the Watchdog story. I believe we are on a solid path forward, Click wrote. Support: 14 7/8 x 15 in. All I can say is this is not the museum that I have known and loved for so long.. This is not a game to me, Weitzman said, adding that she had raised concerns about employee mistreatment with Saenger; with the previous chair, Herbert Butch Patrick Jr.; and with board vice chair Kevin Click, the chair of the human resources committee. Weitzman and the group moved to the first floor, where Myers was standing with trustee Bob Benites. I was impressed to know that the leader of an unpaid docent group held a position on the board. Leave, I did. Martin CJ Mongiello, MBA, MA, MCFE Chair of the Board @ foundation, museum, inn, & school. Linda Kendall Fields is a resident of Fletcher, North Carolina and has been on the Asheville Music School Board of Directors since it became a non-profit organization in 2012. Is the Asheville Art Museum a public institution meant to serve citizens or merely Ms. Myers house and the boards plaything. Its clear that Ms. Myers has the support of the museums board. Ms. Stackhouse, no one is arguing that Pam did a good job (in certain parts of her job). The Museum also offers a broad variety of innovative programs for all ages, including classes and workshops for adults, college students, children, and families; guided and group tours; concerts and performances; volunteer and docent programs; year-round and summer internship programs; film screenings; lectures and panel discussions; school and teacher programs; special events; and much more. Weitzman said she wanted to make clear that she was not the one confronting Myers at the party. A salary of $167,000 of taxpayer funds could be partially allocated to the leadership of our schools. Sign In The old powers get nervous and forget decency, all in the name of saving the good work weve done when its actually their own egos theyre defending and their positions of prestige and public notice theyre clinging to. Theyre not hearing. Asheville, NC 28801. Visit our Facebook gallery to see photos of the construction process. It is a distinct and dangerous part of the problem. Its also about what it looks like for Asheville, all of us.. The Appleby Exhibition Hall was not open so if that part was open there may be more art in there. development, and promotion of craft titles and art gallery books. Yes, It Stinks, Information About Holiday Water Failures Is Trickling Out, as Asheville Officials Meet in Private. But some trustees felt the board should do more, such as hire an administrator to run the day-to-day operations and free Myers to focus on fundraising and larger issues. It was just very upsetting to me., Saenger said in the meeting, If youve read Lindsays report or spoken to others, I think its clear this was grossly inappropriate behavior by a trustee And this was in the midst of an event for members in the atrium of the museum., Asheville Watchdog requested the report Saenger referenced and any videotape of the incident. Its an art museum of American art, thats its sole focus. She was a beloved mother, sister . Krider said she told Myers, Why do you think you can just stonewall people who are really struggling to understand your role and some of whats been going on here? , According to Weitzman, Benites got defensive and said, I dont think this is appropriate, and Pam said, Im hosting a party. , Weitzman said Krider was shaking her finger at Myers but stopped when Myers asked her to. Sign in with a password below, or sign in using your email. Instead, board member Benites made a motion that Michelle be removed from the board.. Its our responsibility to promote the health of the museum and its mission. Asheville Art Museum Association Inc. has earned a 4/4 Star rating on Charity Navigator. Researches Biltmore's fine and decorative art collections and history to support internal and external communications as well as exhibitions, publications, and training and educational materials . Grand Opening Celebration, Saturday, Nov. 9, 6-10 p.m., $225 . Contact her at skestin@avlwatchdog.org. The board has stood by Myers, 65, largely crediting her with raising $30 million in a capital campaign that spanned well over a decade. Clearly there has been a consistent and ongoing pattern of abuse of volunteers and employees by Ms. Myers, which quite frankly reads like nothing short of a reign of terror .very very bad public relations no matter how magnificent your prized glass edifice there in Pack Square is. Homeward Bound of WNC Asheville, NC 3 weeks ago Be among . The Disturbing Details Behind the Bird Flu and Egg Prices. But the culture of fear in employees, the morale and the attrition is horrendous., In ticking off Weitzmans pattern of disruptive behavior at Tuesdays board meeting, Saenger, the chair, said, I dont see in any way how this benefits anyone or anything about the museum.. This is no joke. This Educational Organization is headquartered in Asheville, NC. We have never censored or disciplined a trustee for expressing differing views or opinions. Cost: Included with general admission Location: Asheville Art Musem, Stoney Lamar Classroom and Van Winkle Gallery Theyre not hearing. We have never censored or disciplined a trustee for expressing differing views or opinions. Leave, I did. All voted in favor of removing Weitzman. Asheville Art Museum. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Youre focusing on me and refusing to focus on the problem, Pams leadership inability, Weitzman said. Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra; Friends of the ASYO; Hip Hop Folktale Project; Music in the Schools; Young People's Concerts; Symphony Talk; MusicWorks; About Us. Will you do the same? Money. In 1955 Jorge Fick became one of the few students to receive an official degree from Black Mountain College, attending from 1952 to 1955. I am not the least surprised by anything I have recently read about her managerial style. Its our responsibility to promote the health of the museum and its mission. Thats not common practice. Does BeLoved Asheville clean up after homeless people? Really good health insurance. If there are additional episodes of improper staff involvement, I will bring this to the trustees to consider your continuing on the board., On Monday, Nov. 14, the day before Tuesdays board meeting, Saenger wrote to Weitzman, In accordance with the bylaws, I am giving you notice that given the inappropriate behavior when you and your companions verbally attacked and intimidated Pam and others at the members event I will request a discussion as to your continuing to serve on the AAM board. This story was originallypublishedbyAsheville Watchdog, an independent nonprofit news team serving Asheville and surrounding communities. Weitzman was part of a group who had gathered on the second floor to talk when Krider, whom Weitzman said she had just met, said shed like to speak with Pam Myers, according to Weitzman. Kate Meehan, Idaho National Laboratory. Pre-purchased online tickets are encouraged; walk-in tickets are also available. In charge of it all is a board of trustees with full authority over the museum's affairs, and one that operates out of public view, often yielding to the will of its long-time executive director, Pamela Myers. Weitzman addressed the incident at the party by saying it occurred at the end of the evening with very few guests at the museum.. hummm reporting decidedly relevant news.. with multiple quotes from her completely compliant and [now] unanimously supportive board; definitely ..as your man TheRump says ad infinitum ..a Witch Hunt !! Weitzman addressed the incident at the party by saying it occurred at the end of the evening with very few guests at the museum.. A woman Weitzman identified as Lindsay Rosson, director of finance and operations at the museum, removed Kriders wine glass from her hand and asked her to leave, according to Weitzman, Krider and Lewis. Sally Kestin is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter. Show your support for our community by helping us power authoritative, in-depth reporting, and keeping access free for neighbors who need it. Museum Members receive 12 months of free general admission. Also, while it may be true that toxicity exists in many museums and nonprofits, it is wholly unacceptable to settle for the status quo. It is a cornerstone in this art-rich town that we can all be very proud of.. Celebrated my birthday at the art museum on Monday with 3 generations of family. The Collection; . Currently, she is supervising the reinstallation of the Museum's American collection, as part of the implementation of the Facilities Master Plan. In charge of it all is a board of trustees with full authority over the museum's affairs, and one that operates out of public view, often yielding to the will of its long-time executive. Stop wagging your finger, didnt even notice I was doing it., Krider said all Weitzman did was tell me where Pam was standing and repeat something she had already apparently said that working for her is really difficult or however she worded it.. But we have been updating inside and out, to build on our past and move forward so that we may thrive far into the 21st century. We need a Museum that supports every person involved in creating and sustaining exhibitions, programs, building its permanent collection, and upholding the institutions mission to engage with all who walk through its great glass doors. Art is certainly important, but the quality of the education leaders for our children should be primary. After the meeting, she sent an email to the docents, writing that she had been removed as a result of standing up for museum staff for the last year, within the Board of Trustees and most recently on record with the AVLWatchdog.org article., Nancy Ferguson, a 30-year museum volunteer and former trustee, told Asheville Watchdog, I was appalled to learn of Ms. Weitzmans dismissal. Activities and Societies: graduate assistantship, Dept of Art History, Theory and Criticism news editor F magazine, executive board, Artists of Color United (ACU) Ford Foundation Fellowship (full . So we tear down the Vance Monument but leave the Queen of the Glass Palace in place? Thats absurd, Krider said. How were these funds stewarded? Its not even just about the people who work there who were hurt by someones tactics and approach, Krider said. He said an Asheville Watchdog investigative story last week, in which Weitzman was quoted supporting ex-employees who complained of a toxic workplace, had tainted the image of the museum., As a final straw, Saenger said, Pamela Myers, the museums executive director, and a couple of others were threatened at a museum party the night of Nov. 10. After all it is the legal and societal duty of a board member to question and chal- Late-night Thursdays until 9pm; closed Tuesdays. There are laws and responsibilities that any board has, especially a board of a not-for-profit entity. Asheville Art Museum Collections. Do they have any idea how embarrassing their behavior is? But I feel like that has been compromised on numerous occasions by Michelle Weitzman.. Saenger told Asheville Watchdog that as far as he knew, the museum, established in 1948, had never removed a trustee. There is not a more perilous or immoral habit of mind than the sanctifying of success. John Dalberg-Acton. What, because I spoke up? she said. Got it. Sunday Funday the Old-Fashioned Way! She urged her fellow trustees to ask for Myerss resignation and to find a new executive director. Candace Reilly, one of six former employees who complained to the trustees in 2015, told Asheville Watchdog the board had a chance to do the right thing, but chose to support Myers. Not something the CT would undertake. Required fields are marked *. A vibrant arts scene, creative restaurants and beer galore dazzle in this Southern jewel of a city. Some art lovers thank their lucky stars for Meyers. You said to me you will not stand down on this. We are sad to announce the passing of Jennifer Elizabeth Gordon of Sylva, North Carolina. Your email address will not be published. Kill the messenger certainly sends a message to the employees You may have built the house, but setting up a throne in it makes a rotten endeavor. Contact her at skestin@avlwatchdog.org. Pam should not have been in charge of day to day operations in 2015, and it is shocking that she still is. They dont want to hear. The Museum moved The Museum also offers a broad variety of innovative programs for all ages, including classes and workshops for adults, college students, children . Foster is the Robert L. McNeil, Jr., Senior Curator of American Art and Director of the Center for American Art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where she has worked since 2002. The Asheville Art Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, accredited by the American Alliance of Museums which receives support for its programs from Museum Members; other generous individuals, corporations, businesses, and foundations; the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources (www.NCArts.org); the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the primary source of federal support for the nations libraries and museums; and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency which believes that a great nation deserves great art. A renovated and expanded museum opened in 2019 in a glass building that is now a landmark downtown, and the museum has an endowment of more than $6 million. Asheville loves art, of course, but they also despise bullies. With the Museums major renovation and expansion project comes even greater opportunities to transform lives through art. And yes, Im proudly woke.) . Open daily 11am6pm. . No one on that board even bothered to come to Michelles defense and say, Well, wait a minute. Emails provided by Weitzman show she raised employee concerns beginning in March 2022. Open daily 11 am - 6 pm. It is a simple matter to learn what employees are experiencing and feel. Late-night Thursdays until 9pm; closed Tuesdays. Weitzman said a museum patron, Monica Krider, had wanted to share her thoughts with Pam about the Watchdog story. Saenger responded in an Aug. 9 email that while it is important that trustees are informed as to staffing needs, etc., personal details are restricted by state and federal policy.. Check outadditional time lapse videos of the construction project on our YouTube channel. But it was Krider, not Weitzman, who confronted Myers in front of board member Robert Benites. The ArtWORKS for Asheville Capital Campaign has been very successful due to the generosity of our board of trustees, close supporters, government, foundation, and corporate supporters from within Buncombe County, North Carolina, and nationally. I think this is horrible., Zahler added that he was supposed to be making the motion to remove Weitzman, but obviously I got on a little too late I would like to second that motion.. Below is a brief time lapse video of some of the demolition and rebuilding work that occurredat 2 South Pack Square in 2018. Shame! The Asheville Art Museum has been remodeled since my last visit. Get a code sent to your email to sign in, or sign in using a password. At the board meeting Tuesday, Benites said he was terribly, terribly upset by the incident. I am a former AAM member, but gave up donating awhile back when the staff turnover showed that the negative work environment was effecting the entire institution. What is happening at art museums? I have never experienced someone with so little emotional intelligence and managerial ability. But I moved to Asheville in large measure because of its progressive values. Regular gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. Weitzman responded that she attempted a group effort and failed. Exhibition Title: Asheville Art . Is there not something to this? Huff said. Weitzman addressed the incident at the party by saying it occurred at the end of the evening with very few guests at the museum.. Late-night Thursdays until 9pm; closed Tuesdays. He said Weitzman had disrupted board meetings and had inappropriate communications with staff. Answer Man: Where are the street sweepers? Having been a consultant to dozens of major medical centers, large and small hospitals; as an active member of various boards; as an active supporter of the Asheville Art Museum for 19 years and a retired AAM board member; and along with my spouse substantial donors of funds and art , I am distressed and appalled over the treatment of Michelle Weitzman ,as revealed in this article. I showed her where Pam was, Weitzman said. Pre-purchased online tickets are encouraged; walk-in tickets are also available. The Asheville Art Museum has a high-quality collection of artifacts and visual arts representing the rich history of Western North Carolina. I need to look at some more pleasant after reading this article. He said Weitzman had disrupted board meetings and had inappropriate communications with staff. An outspoken member of the Asheville Art Museum's board, the only current trustee to speak publicly about employee complaints of mistreatment, was ousted from the board Tuesday and removed as a museum volunteer. The first floor had minimal art, just some in the lobby and framed photography. Tickets are non-refundable. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. After the meeting, Weitzman told Asheville Watchdog she believed her removal was retribution for challenging the museums leadership. They orchestrated it all., Weitzman had volunteered at the museum since 2016 and held a seat on the board as president of the Docents Association. Rep. Richard Hudson (R) introduced national reciprocity for concealed carry in the 118th Congress on Monday night. But it was Krider, not Weitzman, who confronted Myers in front of board member Robert Benites. Ousted Trustee Describes Culture of Fear at Asheville Art Museum, Hyperallergic, 11/18/22, https://hyperallergic.com/781084/ousted-trustee-describes-culture-of-fear-at-asheville-art-museum/, Trustee Who Criticized Director Is Ousted from Art Museum Board, Asheville Watchdog, 11/17/22, https://avlwatchdog.org/trustee-ousted-from-museum-board/, Not A Pretty Picture at the Asheville Art Museum, Asheville Watchdog, 11/9/22, https://avlwatchdog.org/not-a-pretty-picture-at-the-asheville-art-museum/. Board of a board of trustees want to have access to our.! Societal duty of asheville art museum board of directors board member Robert Benites by joining our vibrant family of.! Downtown Asheville, all of us planned building projects the hell museum off my to do and support list build. Months of free general admission Location: Asheville Art museum still enjoying public funding for who... Admission Location: Asheville Art museum is located on the museum was not so... 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