Collections/Exhibitions/Programs

This is really just and OUTLINE for me.. I'm currently expanding on all of thins forming my documents. But I figured I'd put this up incase anyone wants to look at it and see if I'm missing any major sections. *esther

Collections:

While collecting actual food is a challenge the museum is not focused on, we are focused on collecting memories of food. From production to consumption, through the eyes of various cultures, and from the history of the first American meals to the current and ever-changing issues surrounding food, the Museum of Food in and of America will strive to collect accounts of the way in which food effects and relates to every aspect of our lives.

· Objects (and photographs): Examples of objects we would like to add to the collection would include (but not limited to) food production items such as grinding stones, farm or factory equipment, food advertising or franchise memorabilia, objects of consumption or preservation such as utensils, appliances, etc.

· Memory: will be collected and preserved in both archival materials as well as oral histories. These accounts will be collected as the museum reaches out to different communities or companies, as well as via visitor feedback.

· Scholarship: The museum will both collect and contribute to the existing scholarship surrounding the complex topic of food in America.

Collections Policy & Procedures

Acquisitions:

•Documentation/Provenance

•Condition

•No Regulations by Donor

•Collect with intent to exhibit, ideally more than once

•Approval

•Deed of Gift

•Immediate entry of records into database and digitization before use in exhibitions

De-accessions

•Proper channels of donation before selling

Loans:

•Short term

•Long term

Care and Preservation of Collection

•Staff responsibilities to maintain integrity of collection (storage and supporting materials

Digitization:

•Digital records of all objects available for public access online

Exhibitions:

The museum will house both permanent and special exhibitions. It will also be a future goal of the museum to travel exhibitions.

*Three Exhibitions supplemented by programs

The History of Food in America (ongoing)

•Exhibit the long history of Foodways in America

•Strive to use food to push American History further back than conventional museums

•Document and present the evolution of the relationship between man and food

•This exhibit is to remain up to date (funds set aside for its maintenance)

Cultural/Community Highlights (rotating)

•Tell the complex stories of migration and immigration of numerous groups

•Ensure the presence of the voice of the group on display

•LES communities first

Science and Technology

•Use food to present lessons about chemistry, composition, innovation, etc.

Programs:

MoFIA’s Public Programs use the universally relatable topic of food to engage a wide audience and are uniquely educational and entertaining.

•Audio Tours (5 languages, after first two years, 5 more based on visitor feedback)

•Interactive Devices

•Collaborations with Fairs, Farmer’s Markets, Co-ops

•Film Series

•Lecture Series

•Cooking Classes (educational and fun)

•Food Bank Collection Events

•Guided Tours