Legacies

“Legacies and Memories,” moderated by Claudine Brown of the Nathan Cummings Foundation, engaged leaders from institutions and foundations who are “in the business” of preserving the memory and legacy of someone else. Many innovative strategies for keeping great legacies vital were shared for discussion.

The role of the steward in preserving a legacy, the role of the subject in preserving his/her own legacy, the challenges of memory, and the protection of legacies were outlined as key themes for this conversation. Inspired by their first visit to the Glass House and reflecting the passion all participants have for education, a lively dialogue focused on program ideas and opportunities for the Glass House.

Legacy was discussed as relating to both “spirit” and “values.” The purpose of an institutional mission defined by legacy was described as two-fold: to question what a legacy can offer society as well as how a legacy can challenge society. Participants explored the dichotomy between fostering reverence and being relevant. Numerous program models and missions were discussed.

Christopher Mason performed songs he had been commissioned to write and sing for Philip Johnson’s birthday celebrations. These songs were featured throughout the gathering and infused this conversation with theater and humor.