Legacies | Overview
“Legacies and
Memories,” moderated by Claudine Brown of the Nathan Cummings Foundation, engaged leaders from institutions and
foundations who are “in the business” of preserving the memory and legacy of someone else. Many
innovative strategies for keeping great legacies vital were shared for discussion.
The role of the
steward in preserving a legacy, the role of the subject in preserving his/her own legacy, the
challenges of memory, and the protection of legacies were outlined as key themes for this conversation.
Inspired by their first visit to the Glass House and reflecting the passion all participants have
for education, a lively dialogue focused on program ideas and opportunities for the Glass
House.
Legacy was discussed as
relating to both “spirit” and “values.” The purpose of an institutional mission defined by legacy was described as
two-fold: to question what a legacy can offer society as well as how a legacy can challenge society.
Participants explored the dichotomy between
fostering reverence
and being relevant. Numerous program models and missions were
discussed.
Christopher Mason
performed songs he had been commissioned to write and sing for Philip Johnson’s birthday celebrations. These songs
were featured throughout the gathering and infused this conversation with theater and
humor.