A Travel Log with Dr. Anna O. Marley

As a museum curator, when the opportunity arises to embark on new adventures, you not only seize it but relish every moment. In late May, PAFA Chief of Curatorial Affairs and Kenneth R. Woodcock Curator of Historical American Art, Dr. Anna O. Marley got to travel to beautiful New Mexico for the opening of Making American Artists: Stories from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 1776–1976 at the Albuquerque Museum. Amidst engaging in the scholarly and professional aspects of the trip, she also savored moments of leisure, making the most of each experience along the way.

Dr. Marley in front of Homer Winslow's "Fox Hunt"

"I was thrilled to witness PAFA’s collection in dialogue with the New Mexican collection at the Albuquerque Museum—two distinct perspectives on defining American art and the artists who shape it."

Making American Artists, curated by Dr. Marley, delves into PAFA's extensive collection of American art. Featuring over 100 iconic paintings and sculptures alongside pieces by traditionally underrepresented artists, this exhibition scrutinizes what it meant to be an American artist over centuries of cultural evolution and chronicles significant changes in our national artistic identity, weighing what it meant to be an “American” artist from when the institution was founded to the late twentieth century. 

Despite a minor setback—thanks to a flight delay from Philadelphia—Dr. Marley's journey unfolded with enthusiasm and discovery. Arriving in Albuquerque, she was greeted by a city quite unlike home in Philly. Wide, open spaces bathed in New Mexican sunlight framed by mountains—Albuquerque's landscape set the stage for an unforgettable exploration of art and culture.

Her itinerary was a blend of networking with colleagues and reveling in sensory delights. Days filled with tours and lectures were balanced by evenings sampling local delicacies—with plenty of Chili Verde and margaritas of all flavors. She even explored more of the beautiful Southwest by driving over the mountains to Santa Fe. The scenic beauty left her in awe. She even managed to fit in a visit to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

The highlight, however, was the public opening. The galleries hummed with energy as visitors, captivated by the breadth of the collection, engaged deeply with the works on display. The free public lecture drew an impressive crowd of 146 enthused and engaged attendees.

"Many of the works in this show are familiar to Philadelphians, but for those in Albuquerque, they knew the artists or had seen reproductions, not the works in person. One paleontologist remarked he had waited his entire life to see 'The Artist in His Museum.'"

Dr. Marley's lecture, the culmination of the opening festivities, resonated with a diverse audience eager to explore the exhibition's themes of inclusion and artistic identity. Prominently displayed works by women and Black artists, often overlooked in historical narratives, prompted thoughtful discussions. For many, seeing these artworks up close was a revelation—a chance to witness firsthand the extent of American artistic expression.  

Reflecting on the exhibition's impact, Dr. Marley emphasized its power to redefine perceptions. For her, the most rewarding moments came from witnessing these conversations unfold organically among friends and colleagues, spurred by the art on display. This juxtaposition of perspectives on American identity through art fascinated her deeply. As she bid farewell to Albuquerque, Dr. Marley carried with her not just memories of a successful exhibition opening but a renewed belief in art's ability to unite and inspire.  For those eager to visit Albuquerque, Dr. Marley's recommendation was clear: visit the Albuquerque Museum and see the exhibition.  

"It is a rare opportunity to see some of the greatest works of American art from Philadelphia as they travel across the nation. There is so much to learn and enjoy. Albuquerque Museum is a beautiful museum in a great city, with a spectacular collection of New Mexican art. It's truly a must-see!"

Making American Artists stands not only as a celebration of PAFA's legacy but as a testament to the ever-evolving narrative of American artistry. It invites us all to reconsider what it means to be an American artist, inviting dialogue, appreciation, and a deeper understanding of our shared cultural heritage.  

Making American Artists is on view in Albuquerque until August 11, 2024. Next stop is Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, Oklahoma, September 25, 2024. Also, get excited with us about re-installing the permanent collection in 2026!

All photos courtesy of Anna Marley