Controversy Unfolds at Two Rivers Museum Over Canceled Art Residencies
The Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum, renowned as the sole institution devoted to the preservation and study of wood type, is currently under scrutiny. The abrupt cancellation of its artist residencies has sparked demands for transparency and leadership changes from artists and benefactors.
Earlier this year, the museum unexpectedly halted its visiting artists program, which is known for highlighting significant contributors to the letterpress craft. The museum attributed these cancellations to a leadership transition, which necessitated the board’s involvement in daily operations while a new executive director was recruited.
Despite the appointment of a new executive director, criticism regarding the museum’s transparency persists. The board and the museum’s president have declined to comment. In a recent statement, Executive Director Beth Kowalski emphasized the museum’s commitment to its mission, stating, “We are aware of others’ efforts to look back and, while we respect those individuals’ and groups’ rights to voice their opinions, we also need to forge ahead in our important work.”
The Windgate Foundation, a long-time supporter of the museum, has voiced its concerns. In an October letter, Executive Director Patricia Forgy described the situation as a “full-blown crisis” and noted a significant decline in the museum’s revenue. The foundation has decided to withhold future funding until specific changes are made, including leadership resignations and restoration of canceled programs.
Patricia Forgy’s letter emphasized the necessity of these changes, stating, “This trajectory is not sustainable.” The letter also calls for increased diversity among board members.
The controversy intensified when artist IBé Crawley’s residency was canceled with little notice. Crawley, who sought clarification from the board, was denied further conversation and access to museum facilities. The incident prompted wider discussions within the community, highlighting cancellations affecting Black artists and exhibitions.
Community members, including print artists Desiree Aspiras and Jenn Graves, have expressed their dissatisfaction through various campaigns, including a petition calling for the board’s resignation. Their concerns were further echoed by Julie Chen, a former resident artist at the museum, who described an unfruitful meeting with board President Tracy Honn regarding the issue.
The museum’s annual Wayzgoose fundraiser faced cancellations from presenters and refund requests from attendees, leading to its eventual cancellation this year. Efforts to address these issues include a petition and a postcard campaign directed at the museum’s major funders, urging intervention.
