Release Date: March 29, 2010

MEDIA CONTACT: Debra Krol, 602.251.0218 [email protected] Kate Crowley, 602.251.0283 [email protected] Juliet Martin, 602.251.0232 [email protected]

HEARD INITIATES AFFILIATION WITH

PHOENIX, ARIZ. – The Heard Museum and the Smithsonian Institution recently entered into a long-term affiliation, which will enhance both institutions by sharing knowledge, exhibits and publications. The partnership was announced in late February to Heard Museum members by Dr. Letitia Chambers, the director of the Heard Museum, and Dr. Harold A. Closter, director of .

In addition to artifact loans, Smithsonian Affiliations helps member organizations identify appropriate resources within the Smithsonian to accompany exhibit loans: education and performing arts programs, expert speakers, teacher workshops and technical assistance. Smithsonian Affiliations also offers career development workshops for museum professions, stipends for internships for students working with Affiliates and research opportunities for visiting professionals.

“This new partnership between our two prestigious institutions will greatly further the Heard Museum’s mission of educating the public about the arts and lifeways of American Indian peoples, as well as strengthening the long-time relationship we have enjoyed with the Smithsonian,” Chambers noted.

Closter mentioned that “the Heard Museum is recognized around the world for its excellent collections, exhibitions and educational programs, and the Heard has been an important contributor to the Smithsonian’s work in exploring and presenting contemporary Native . By joining forces through this affiliation, we look forward to expanding the awareness and appreciation of one of America’s most vibrant artistic traditions.”

Chambers and Closter both noted that the Heard and Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian have recently collaborated on the contemporary exhibition REMIX , which was exhibited both at the Heard and at NMAI in 2007-2008.

-more- Heard Museum, Smithsonian Enter Into Affiliation Partnership — Page 2

Heard Museum members will have the opportunity to add a membership to the Smithsonian to their Heard Museum membership for just $20 annually. Smithsonian membership includes a one-year subscription to the Smithsonian Magazine or Air and Space Magazine as well as many other benefits. To learn more about becoming a member of the Heard Museum, please visit the Heard Museum membership department at heard.org/membership, call 602.251.0261 or send an email to [email protected].

###

** High-resolution digital images of the filming are available. Please contact Debra Krol at 602.251.0218 or [email protected] .

About the Heard Museum - Since 1929, the Heard Museum has educated visitors from around the world about the art and cultures of Native people of the Southwest. With more than 39,000 artifacts in its permanent collection, an education center and award-winning Shop and Café, the Heard remains committed to being a place of learning, discovery and unforgettable experiences.