ABSTRACT

Recognizing the renewed national awareness of racial tensions and economic disparities, the need for solace in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, and the legacy of the events of September 11, 2001, American art museums have unique opportunities to provide safe spaces in which to encourage mutual respect through interfaith dialogue. This case study highlights the important role that museums can play in exploring diverse points of view and in inspiring empathy and religious understanding. The authors examine the mutual benefits of bringing together museum staff, academics, faith and community leaders, and docents of various faiths, with each contributing their own expertise to the process. This article considers the opportunities and criteria for selecting artworks that effectively present recurring themes of shared fundamental beliefs across history and cultures, and introduces an innovative touring model that promotes open and respectful discourse and our common humanity.

摘要

认识到种族紧张和经济差异的新国家意识、冠状病毒大流行之后的慰藉需求以及 2001 年 9 月 11 日事件的遗产，美国艺术博物馆有独特的机会提供安全的空间来鼓励通过宗教间对话相互尊重。本案例研究强调了博物馆在探索不同观点以及激发同理心和宗教理解方面可以发挥的重要作用。作者研究了将博物馆工作人员、学者、信仰和社区领袖以及各种信仰的讲解员聚集在一起的共同利益，每个人都为这一过程贡献自己的专业知识。