Join us for The 2025 Belonging Symposium, a dynamic gathering of thought leaders, artists, and change makers exploring the future of inclusion in museums and cultural spaces. This year’s theme is ADVANCE: Forward-Thinking Strategies for Belonging in Museums: Lessons Learned & Pathways Forward

Over three days, national and international experts will share insights, strategies, and innovations that reimagine museums as places of belonging. From keynote talks to engaging panels, this symposium will challenge ideas, spark dialogue, and inspire action.

Mark your calendar and be part of this important conversation on the evolving role of museums.

This symposium is made possible with the generous support of Lead Sponsor Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP, Sponsor Lehmann-Maupin, and additional support from Destination Toledo.

Thursday, April 24

 

Friday, April 25, 2025

Saturday, April 26, 2025

Artist Statement

The materials that compose our bodies, our world, our very material universe, started in the core of a star. They are mysterious, massive, and so bright that from light years away they grace our skies.  Symbolically, they serve as a gateway into our future. We find ourselves looking for guidance from a higher power or unknown answers or hoping for a brighter tomorrow.

Stardust Dutch is my interpretation of the possibilities of human collaboration, seeking new heights for the advancement of others and a celebration of joy and recreation. I wanted to paint something that encapsulates movement, rhythm, and action, that energizes viewers, and to focus on the teamwork needed to create belonging for all.

We all want to change the world, but to achieve these things, we need support and help from those around us. The goal of belonging in our communities cannot be achieved by one person or without listening to our neighbors. Thus, this piece is divided into two parts: the celestial and the worldly. The celestial is the heavens and the patchwork of the night sky. When we want to accomplish greatness, we might use the sayings “reach for the stars” or “aim for the sky.” To achieve profound greatness, wouldn’t we not only go to the stars, but beyond them? Putting human figures in the act of jumping the stars creates the image of surpassing our goals and aiming for a more diverse and inclusive future.

The worldly aspects are double Dutch, a game from my childhood, and the figures themselves.  Jumping Dutch requires equal parts communication, timing, and concentration from all individuals involved. Without the rope turners, there is no game, and without the jumper, there is no reason to spin the ropes. Without the turners keeping the beat with shouts or chants, there is no rhythm for the jumper to follow. All must come together to play and spread joy. The figures—faceless, unbound by skin tone—represent the spectrum of human cultures, communities, and experiences. Together in this ongoing cosmic dance, we embrace what is to come, challenge societal norms, and impart the importance of positive change.

The Belonging Plan at the Toledo Museum of Art is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. This living document outlines our commitment to addressing historical exclusions and creating a welcoming environment for all staff, visitors, and volunteers. By embedding DEAI principles into every facet of our operations, we aim to become a model art museum in the United States. Our plan includes actionable strategies and measurable outcomes, ensuring transparency and accountability as we work towards a more inclusive future. Join us in our journey to make belonging a central part of the museum experience.