Museums as Repositories of Slavic Heritage: Evolving Missions, Practices and Challenges

Session Submission Type: Roundtable

Brief Description

This roundtable explores the multifaceted nature of collecting Slavic and Russian heritage in the U.S., with a focus on art, historical artifacts, and archival materials. Drawing on the experience of panelists from three institutions—Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, the Icon Museum and Study Center, and the Russian History Museum—the session explores the significance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering public understanding of the Slavic world. Explaining the principles guiding new acquisitions and how museums balance historical integrity with the needs of communities, presenters will examine the critical role of memory in shaping their institutions and the ways in which their missions have evolved over time. They also will address preservation and how to combine contemporary approaches with the intentions of founders.

The discussion will also touch on the topic of the interconnectedness of research, curation, and exhibition practices, with a focus on the challenges of keeping the past relevant for modern audiences. Additionally, the role played by public programming, publications, and institutional collaboration will be highlighted as a key strategy in expanding access to Slavic collections and fostering broader community involvement. Panelists will consider how collections can engage diverse visitor groups and spark meaningful conversations about art, history, and culture.

Sub Unit

• Arts I: Visual Culture, Material Culture, Applied and Fine Arts

Chair

• Wendy R. Salmond, Chapman U

Roundtable Speakers

• Michael Perekrestov, Russian History Museum

• Anastasia Shteinert, Brandeis U

• Justin Willson, Yale U

• Wilfried Zeisler, Hillwood Estate, Museum, and Gardens