WestMuse Blog
Here on the WestMuse Blog, you’ll find a variety of articles and resources to help guide you through this difficult time as we all stay home to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Check in every #WestMuseWednesday and Fridays for our latest blog posts discussing current topics from learning how to work from home to sharing social media best practices.
If you’re seeking information on a specific topic related to the museum industry or COVID-19, please feel free to reach out to us at blog@westmuse.org. Thanks!
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March 2, 2022
It’s March, which also means that it’s Women’s History Month!
What first began in 1980 as a weeklong celebration in California’s Sonoma County, would eventually be recognized in 1995 as a month-long celebration, honoring generations of women and their vital contributions in American history.
Every “Women’s History Month” is designated by a presidential proclamation and is given a yearly theme by...
February 9, 2022
In the year 1915, Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) to disseminate information about black life, history and culture to the global community. Under Woodson’s leadership, ASALH created research and publication outlets for black scholars and established “Negro History Week” – a celebration that took place during the second week...
January 21, 2022
These days, working in a museum has never been so demanding. Professionals are taking on new responsibilities beyond their typical role due to staff layoffs, trying to find that sweet balance between work and homelife, having to learn and rely on various technologies, and are working to manage their mental health.
How do you succeed while working at home or in isolation? How do you tackle that...
December 20, 2021
This New Year, gift yourself some self-care.
We're almost at the two-year anniversary of COVID, and at this point, some might find indulging in self-care to just be futile. But during this time of year filled with back-to-back holidays and everything that comes along with them, sellf-care is essential. Our stress levels can be at an all-time high and focusing on your own wellness strategy can...
December 15, 2021
We’re thrilled to have Art Work Fine Art Services as a WMA sponsor!
The last thing museum professionals need to worry about is the safety and security of the artwork that is being transported, stored, or installed. As the trusted logistical partner of many institutions, Art Work Fine Art Services (FAS) promises to expertly take care of the handling so you can focus on everything else.
For...
December 3, 2021
2021 has been a year unlike any other in history (excluding the previous one). Thinking back to this time last year, we can all truly appreciate the way museums across the US have responded to the ongoing crisis, pivoted to create digital offerings, and worked diligently to open their doors once more.
Like so many, the Western Museums Association (WMA) adjusted what was once our “normal”...
November 22, 2021
Throughout 2021, on nearly every Monday, we ended our WMA Weekly newsletter with a short, calming, fun, silly video that we like to call our "Moment of Zen." From footage of Zion National Park to a dog sledding down a snowy hill, these videos were shared as an offering of some peace and quiet, or a moment to simply smile and laugh – something that became all so important during these past two...
November 9, 2021
This holiday season fill your stockings and surround your trees with gifts from museums across the Western US!
As many museums across the United States still recover from extended closures, staff layoffs, and a decrease in attendance due to the ongoing pandemic, the revenue generated by museum stores is more important than ever before. Proceeds from museum stores financially support the missions...