Cultural Leader Expresses Concerns Over U.S. Arts Landscape

Marion Ackermann, the new head of Germany's largest cultural institution, the Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz in Berlin, has voiced significant concerns regarding the current state of the arts in the United States. In her first 100 days in office, she has shown solidarity with American cultural figures, highlighting her worries about the quietness surrounding the ongoing challenges in the U.S. arts sector.

During her tenure, Ackermann noted that US President Donald Trump has directed his administration to influence cultural institutions, particularly museums, to align with the government's narrative. One of the most notable examples of this directive includes the Smithsonian Institution, which manages several museums in Washington, D.C.

Ackermann remarked on the disturbing lack of vocal opposition among U.S. cultural leaders, stating that few are raising their voices in protest. She pointed out that the Getty Museum remains one of the few institutions actively advocating for the arts. Many of her colleagues in Washington, D.C., she observed, are feeling despondent about the current climate.

In response to these challenges, Ackermann plans to visit the United States in October to explore avenues for support and collaboration with her counterparts in the American arts community. Her visit aims to foster connections and provide tangible assistance where possible.

Looking ahead, Ackermann is preparing for significant developments within her own institution, including the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for the Berlin Modern, a new museum set to open at the Kulturforum on October 17. Additionally, she mentioned that the long-awaited reform process within the Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz is expected to conclude officially on December 1.

As part of her strategic vision, Ackermann aims to enhance educational outreach efforts within the museums and address the pressing issue of workforce shortages in the cultural sector. She announced plans for an extensive training initiative to attract and develop talent in the arts.

Ackermann also expressed her commitment to optimizing the presentation of exhibitions by suggesting that the remaining displays from the Museum of European Cultures be relocated to the Humboldt Forum, where visitor engagement is anticipated to be higher. To navigate the financial pressures facing the cultural sector, she indicated that implementing ticket machines and streamlining exhibitions could be potential cost-saving measures.

Encouragingly, Ackermann shared insights from a recent study indicating that public trust in museums remains strong, positioning them as crucial pillars of society.

The Stiftung Preußischer Kulturbesitz, which employs around 2,000 staff members, encompasses not only the State Library of Berlin and several institutes but also the State Museums of Berlin, which house 15 collections and approximately 4.7 million objects across 19 locations, including the well-known museums on Museum Island and the New National Gallery.