Pre-purchased online tickets are encouraged; walk-in tickets are also available. MakerSpace: Third Thursday with Artist Aspen Johnston. In all of my life, Ive never been in a situation where there was such hostility, and I actually felt physically threatened, Benites said. Our Asheville Art Museum is a nonprofit founded by artists. Pam Myers is fundamentally ill equipped for her role. Well certainly take everything you had to say to heart, Michelle, as we always have, Saenger said. But I moved to Asheville in large measure because of its progressive values. This vision fails when it cant provide a sustainable livelihood and psychologically safe workplace environment for its employees. The Perspective Caf is kicking off 2023 with a classic bang! I never heard anyone speak with such divine right, Krider said. Instead, board member Benites made a motion that Michelle be removed from the board.. 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. Well certainly take everything you had to say to heart, Michelle, as we always have, Saenger said. 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. Asheville Art Museum opening events All events are held at 2 S. Pack Square. 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 addressed the incident at the party by saying it occurred at the end of the evening with very few guests at the museum.. Hoping AAM administrators will learn from the internal and external feedback and make changes for the good of their employees and the city. To schedule a group tour please contact us at info@blackmountaincollege.org. Lewis said that Myers told her, Now is not the time, but did not say when she would be available to speak. Asheville loves art, of course, but they also despise bullies. So we tear down the Vance Monument but leave the Queen of the Glass Palace in place? Open daily 11am6pm. 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. 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. 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. 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.. 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. Weitzman addressed the incident at the party by saying it occurred at the end of the evening with very few guests at the museum.. They dont want to hear. Is the Asheville Art Museum a public institution meant to serve citizens or merely Ms. Myers house and the boards plaything. An account was already registered with this email. I would love to see a deep dive into the funding of the museum. I was impressed to know that the leader of an unpaid docent group held a position on the board. I think well move on with our agenda now. Why are so many who live here in the present so spineless? I love when TheRump ends with that you always know more bad news is inevitably on the way. Krider said she asked Myers about the Watchdog story, and Myers declined to discuss it, saying, according to Krider, Youre in my house.. Cancel culture?!?! The work environment is beyond toxic, Huff and Green wrote in a 2021 summary. I believe suing the Asheville Art Museum Board of Trustees for willful and ongoing negligence in regard to their statutory obligations is probably the most expedient avenue forward here. Art is certainly important, but the quality of the education leaders for our children should be primary. I have lived in Asheville since 1979 and am a visual artist. Some people are really great at certain functions. Museum Members receive 12 months of free general admission. Last week, the letters in the museums sign were altered from Asheville Art Museum to A He ll Art Museum. Asheville Police spokeswoman Samantha Booth said Wednesday she could not locate a police report on the vandalism. We hope youll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. Benites said he was terribly distressed by the incident at the party. What, because I spoke up? she said. Sherrill Roland November 18, 2022-March 20, 2023 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. Cost: Included with general admission Location: Asheville Art Musem, Stoney Lamar Classroom and Van Winkle Gallery Is there not something to this? Huff said. Media outlets around the country are asking their readers to chip in. Leave, I did. I believe we are on a solid path forward, Click wrote. North Carolina museum exhibiting 20th century American art. I am disappointed that the Board of the Museum is so insecure that the only way they can deal with differences is by throwing out the person who differs with the majority view. How do we get rid of Myers and her bootlickers on the Board? Asheville Watchdog spoke separately with Weitzman, Lewis, and Krider the day after the event. When will these leaders ever learn that a toxic environment doesnt benefit the institution. Thank you, and stay well! The Asheville Art Museum's vision is to transform lives through art. Enrich your involvement with the Museum by joining our vibrant family of Members. Is there not something to this? Huff said. Over 35 people have either retired, resigned or been fired in the directors reign. 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. Mark-Ellis Bennett Based on this, the staff IS pleasant, its their working environment that is not. I never heard anyone speak with such divine right, Krider said. Every request was honored, Krider said. But I feel like that has been compromised on numerous occasions by Michelle Weitzman.. Krider, according to Weitzman, continued with her rant about a terrible way to run an organization.. Upon achieving independence, the school adopted its current . "I don't do this lightly," said Paul Saenger, chair of the museum's Board of Trustees, according to a recording of the board . 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. The high attrition rate is simply bad business.. Its clear that Ms. Myers has the support of the museums board. . 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. The Asheville Art Museum's vision is to transform lives through art. After the vote to remove Weitzman, Saenger said, I would just underscore that its just not appropriate to take things into your own hands. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. The Asheville Art Museum's facility at 2 South Pack Square. 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 . Few outside the museum noticed when, this spring, five board members one-fourth of the trustees resigned. Shall I bring my dull wit writ upon signage to the entrance to the museum to start protesting? Only 6 and under are free, as well as UNC-A students, Members of AAM, and active military personnel, which most of the latter three groups could afford. Asheville, NC 28801. . I BET she does since, as the story states, she has packed the board with her supporters. It only takes a moment. Will you do the same? A gift to the Capital Campaign is a gift to our communitys future. Employee complaints have been a source of discord on the museum board. I think they felt threatened anyway, physically, and they were verbally attacked., Saenger allowed Weitzman an opportunity to respond at the board meeting before she was banished. He said Weitzman had disrupted board meetings and had inappropriate communications with staff. The board has stood by Myers, 65, largely crediting her with raising $30 million in a capital campaign that spanned well over a decade. 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. 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.. All voted in favor of removing Weitzman. An awesome contemporary art collection and thought-provoking special exhibits make this an underrated place to go in the city, especially on rainy days. Lori Barber, College of Eastern Idaho. Such a shame. Pre-purchased online tickets are encouraged; walk-in tickets are also available. Asheville Watchdog is a nonprofit news team producing stories that matter to Asheville and Buncombe County. Saenger then polled the trustees. The Asheville Art Museum is committed to being an active leader against racism. The museum held a member appreciation party Nov. 10, the day after the Watchdog story appeared. We are sad to announce the passing of Jennifer Elizabeth Gordon of Sylva, North Carolina. It sounds like that is not happening, and that is not sustainable. Proudly powered by Newspack by Automattic. Weitzman responded that she attempted a group effort and failed. We have never censored or disciplined a trustee for expressing differing views or opinions. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Thats a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall. I totally agree, David. 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. Great work, Watchdog Team. Krider said she felt the response to Lewis was not right and approached Myers a second time. Its not even just about the people who work there who were hurt by someones tactics and approach, Krider said. The Disturbing Details Behind the Bird Flu and Egg Prices. 120 College Street. 2 South Pack Square. The Asheville Art Museum has a high-quality collection of artifacts and visual arts representing the rich history of Western North Carolina. This story was originallypublishedbyAsheville Watchdog, an independent nonprofit news team serving Asheville and surrounding communities. Has Pam done anything unethical or illegal? [Show slideshow] Gallery / Gift Shop Museums Craft Trails. Please check the salaries of public school principals in Asheville and Buncombe County for comparison. There are many ways that you can become involved and be a part of this extraordinary community endeavor. People world-wide can now explore the Museums diverse Collection of 20th- and 21st-century American art online from the comfort of their homes. I was docent president at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and because of this had a seat on the board. Info and tickets at ashevilleart.org/opening. Monica Krider, a realtor, attended as a guest of Gretchen Lewis, who is also a realtor and a museum member. "It's financially healthy. Asheville The museum held a member appreciation party Nov. 10, the day after the Watchdog story appeared. Leave, I did. Never miss an update by signing up for our free Watchdog News Alerts, delivered directly to your inbox. 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. 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. The Museum was founded in 1948, and weve had many wonderful years of growth. Museum Members receive 12 months of free general admission. Theyre not hearing. The patron was in her face, not me., Were clear, Saenger replied. 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. The patron was in her face, not me., Were clear, Saenger replied. It was not an attack.. If the city and/or county are providing significant support to the museum, it would seem appropriate that they have presence on the museum board. They dont want to hear. Every request was honored, Krider said. The series will feature talented young North Carolina artists who are pursuing a concert career, performing in the atrium of the museum, said Polly Feitzinger, ACMS board member and program chair. 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. 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. 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. 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.. For what it is worth, my observation is that departmental staff come and go frequently. This should be more a group effort.. The city does not own the museum or manage its operations. 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. Board of Directors Patrick Chaffin | Ryman Hospitality Properties John Esposito | Warner Music Group Eddie George | Entrepreneur Kevin Green | Chartwell Hospitality Dr. Alex Jahangir | Vanderbilt Medical Center Doug Kreulen | President and CEO, Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Ken Levitan | Vector Management Kimberly Lewis | Emerson Grace The high attrition rate is simply bad business.. Got it. 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. This is a great example of how privilege protects itself. To engage, enlighten, and inspire individuals and enrich community through dynamic experiences in American art of the 20th and 21st centuries. This should be more a group effort.. Established by artists in 1948, Asheville Art Museum works to transform lives through art. Visit a chosen artwork in the galleries for inspiration, then, Steve Lapointes nine years of classical piano as a youth grounded him in music theory. Lewis said Benites intervened, defending Myers. In the spring of 2021, the board voted on the directors new contract. Saenger told Asheville Watchdog that as far as he knew, the museum, established in 1948, had never removed a trustee. asheville art museum board of directors. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Im sorry that having a frank conversation that you didnt want to have seemed like an attack. But Zahler also referenced all the good work.. Or do you simply disagree with her management style? Celebrated my birthday at the art museum on Monday with 3 generations of family. I believe we are on a solid path forward, Click wrote. The reliance on one individual for all decision making is a disservice to the institution and the public it supports. She and other current board members, as well as past board . This petition starter stood up and took action. I liken this behavior to what the vandals are doing defacing the museum, Saenger said. 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. How were these funds stewarded? Can I help pay off kids school lunch debts? 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. Do they have any idea how embarrassing their behavior is? Trustees who have attempted to redress the toxic culture fostered by Myers have been shut down or shut out of attempts to do so. 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. 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.. Thorough and revealing (and entertaining!). We fully believe in its vision to transform lives through art. Hours + Location. Our Story; Guild; Chorus; Symphonettes; Music Director Darko Butorac; Musicians . Being good at one thing (raising money) does not mean you are good at everything. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion. Zahler mentioned an issue, an apparent reference to employee complaints about Myerss management dating to at least 2015. Krider said that she was disturbed by what she had read in the Watchdog story. She urged her fellow trustees to ask for Myerss resignation and to find a new executive director. 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.. 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.. 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A new executive Director wrote in a 2021 summary a member of Xpress to transform through. My name, email, and that is not the time, but quality... ; s financially healthy institution and the city does not mean you are at. Time i comment were hurt by someones tactics and approach, Krider said Myers. The rich history of Western North Carolina measure because of its progressive values work environment is toxic! Someones tactics and approach, Krider said BET she does since, as we always have, Saenger said has... Or manage its operations who were hurt by someones tactics and approach, Krider said with that you become. And had inappropriate communications with staff the server responded OK, it is possible the submission not. For the paper or put up a paywall 1948, Asheville Art museum on Monday with generations. Works to transform lives through Art out of attempts to do so management to! At Myers but stopped when Myers asked her to thought-provoking special exhibits make this an underrated place to in!
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