This past year has seen significant shifts in the art world, particularly in the realm of museums and cultural institutions. The year 2025 brought challenges and disruptions to long-standing practices and beliefs, as diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts faced setbacks and public disputes over representation and authorship became more prominent.
One notable event was when artist Amy Sherald withdrew her exhibition “American Sublime” from the Smithsonian Institution’s National Portrait Gallery due to concerns over curatorial and interpretive constraints. This decision highlighted a shift in power dynamics, as artists began to actively reroute around traditional institutions. Additionally, the turmoil at the Philadelphia Art Museum reflected a larger moment in which authority and leadership were being redefined in the art world.
As we entered 2026, I had the opportunity to sit down with curator eunice bélidor and arts administrator Dejha Carrington to discuss the evolving role of museums in today’s social and political landscape. Each of us approaches our work from a unique perspective, but we all recognize the importance of art institutions in shaping cultural narratives.
During our conversation, we discussed the changing nature of museum content and the role of curators in storytelling. Bélidor emphasized that art is more than just content; it is a means of channeling energy and stories that can be understood by diverse audiences. Carrington added that art should be seen as a language that requires participation and exchange, highlighting the importance of co-creation and collaboration in meaning-making.
We also explored the idea of art as a dynamic experience that transcends physical spaces. Carrington shared insights from her work with Commissioner, an organization that focuses on community-led funding models to commission visual artists. She emphasized the importance of decentralizing the art experience and creating opportunities for multiple perspectives and relationships to coexist.
Overall, our conversation underscored the need for art institutions to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape and embrace new ways of engaging with audiences. By redefining the role of museums as spaces for collaboration, storytelling, and community-building, we can create more inclusive and dynamic cultural experiences for all. Historically, museums have long been seen as central hubs of culture, serving as places where people can gather to align with works of art. However, in 2026, the concept of alignment has evolved beyond the idea that everyone should converge in one physical space to experience art in a singular way. Today, meaningful alignment is about creating connections that have longevity and resonate with diverse audiences on a deeper level.
In a recent conversation, art professionals Dejha Carrington (DC) and eunice bélidor (eb) discussed the changing landscape of museums and the role of institutions in fostering alignment with art. DC emphasized the importance of creating multiple points of entry for audiences, allowing for different perspectives and experiences to be accommodated. This approach challenges traditional museum practices and encourages a more inclusive and diverse engagement with art.
eb highlighted the challenges that art institutions face in making themselves accessible to a wide range of experiences. While museums often focus on presenting art within a historical context or through the lens of an artist’s career, eb argued that exhibitions should also delve into the artist’s personal experiences and thoughts that inform their work. This shift in perspective can help museums better connect with their audiences and offer a more holistic understanding of art.
The conversation also touched on the idea of collaboration and partnership between institutions and individuals. DC shared insights from her work at Commissioner, where collaborations with over 175 museums and organizations have helped create innovative and participatory programs. By working closely with institutions and fostering partnerships, Commissioner has been able to make art more accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
When discussing the role of curators in shaping art experiences, eb emphasized the importance of creating relationships and making diverse perspectives visible. As a curator, eb sees her role as not only interpreting art but also facilitating a dialogue that values different viewpoints. By opening up the conversation and inviting audiences to engage with art in multiple ways, curators can create a more inclusive and dynamic art experience.
Overall, the conversation between DC and eb highlighted the evolving role of museums and institutions in fostering meaningful alignment with art. By embracing diversity, collaboration, and inclusive practices, museums can create spaces that resonate with a broader audience and offer a more enriching art experience for all. In the realm of art curation, the role of institutions is crucial in shaping the way exhibitions are presented and the support provided to artists. In a recent discussion between curators, the idea of institutions as supporters of artists and curators as brokers was highlighted. The conversation delved into the power dynamics at play and the intentional approach of viewing institutions as individual entities with varying opportunities and resources.
One curator emphasized the importance of being invited to curate exhibitions, as it sets the tone for a level playing field where the focus is on providing a space for artists to exhibit without being entangled in institutional dynamics. The curator sees themselves as a bridge between the institution and the artist, facilitating the display of artwork while navigating the complexities of the art world.
The conversation also touched on the distinction between independent curators and those embedded within institutions. The idea of moving beyond traditional systems, such as Maroonage, was discussed, highlighting the importance of collaboration and fluidity in organizing around ideas, artists, and curators.
Looking towards the future, the conversation turned to the next iteration of institutions and the value placed on them. The consensus was that institutions should be community-led, allowing for a more inclusive and diverse approach to art curation. The role of galleries was also examined, with an emphasis on the importance of aligning values with collectors and supporters to create meaningful partnerships.
Ultimately, the goal is to challenge misconceptions about art belonging only to the elite and to create spaces where art can be appreciated and collected as an act of care and love. The idea of connoisseurship, rooted in deep knowledge and appreciation for artists, was highlighted as a way to foster relationships within the art ecosystem and decenter the focus on labor and contribution to a system not built for everyone.
In essence, the work of curators and artists is seen as a form of liberation, aimed at unlearning systems of value and empire. By working together and challenging existing norms, the art world can move towards a more inclusive and equitable future where art is accessible to all. When it comes to Commissioner, one of the things that stands out the most is the emphasis on collaboration and working together. It’s not just about collecting artwork to display in your home, but about the process of working together to create something meaningful and impactful.
The idea of “together work” is at the core of Commissioner’s mission. It’s not just about individual achievement or recognition, but about coming together as a community to create something greater than the sum of its parts. This collaborative approach is what sets Commissioner apart from other art programs and initiatives.
One of the things that Commissioner takes pride in is the diverse range of perspectives and talents that are brought to the table. By working together, individuals are able to learn from each other, share their skills, and create something truly unique and special.
The emphasis on collaboration also fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie among participants. By working together towards a common goal, people are able to build relationships, support each other, and celebrate each other’s successes.
In the end, it’s the “together work” that is the most rewarding and fulfilling aspect of Commissioner. It’s not just about the end result, but about the process of working together and the relationships that are formed along the way. This emphasis on collaboration is what makes Commissioner truly special and sets it apart from other art programs.
