Smithsonian Perspectives
Close
PrintUsage Conditions Apply
The Smithsonian Institution Archives welcomes personal and educational use of its collections unless otherwise noted. For commercial uses, please contact photos@si.edu.Summary
- This editorial page was written by I. Michael Heyman just prior to his installation as Smithsonian Secretary in September 1994. He comments on the responsibilities which lie before him to direct the Institution in its three-pronged mission to present exhibitions which educate the public, conduct research, and provide collection maintenance. Heyman singles out the Thomas Cole exhibition at the National Museum of American Art as one which exemplifies the fine curatorial work done by the Institution; he also comments at length on the controversy wrought by the Enola Gay exhibition at the National Air and Space Museum.
- As Federal funds for the Smithsonian were threatened and its public education role was being hindered, Heyman views that controversy as involving two fundamental principles of the Smithsonian: freedom from detailed political direction or pressure and fulfillment of its educational responsibilities. He stresses that controversies such as the Enola Gay should be handled by providing information on all facets of the debate and then allow the public to reach their own conclusions.
Subject
- Heyman, Ira Michael 5/30/1930-11/19/2011
- National Collection of Fine Arts
- National Museum of American Art (U.S.)
- National Air and Space Museum
- Enola Gay (Bomber)
Category
Smithsonian Institution History Bibliography
Contained within
Smithsonian Vol. 25, No. 7 (Journal)
Contact information
Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu
Date
October 1994
Topic
- Education
- Controversies
- Secretaries
- Exhibitions
- Museums
- Federal Government, Relations with SI
- Museums--Educational aspects
Physical description
Perspectives section, p. 9