Enter the intriguing realm of cultural preservation, where art, history, and community weave a vivid mosaic. Imagine a young artist, armed with a brush and a desire to be creative, who is drawn to the allure of museums. That artist was me, fresh from the Alberta College of Art and Design, entering the enchanted realm of the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies. Little did I know that my first interest would spark a strong desire to pursue a career in CRM leadership, eventually leading to the outstanding Cultural Resource Management (CRM) diploma from the prestigious University of Victoria.
As I embarked on my journey towards CRM excellence, the University of Victoria's program became my compass, guiding me through uncharted territories of cultural heritage. With each step, my interests grew, expanding into a profound appreciation for the intricate web that connects history, community, and the decolonization of cultural organizations. The CRM diploma, fueled by my insatiable curiosity, allowed me to complete three professional development certificates along the way: Collections Management, Visitor and Community Engagement, and Digital Planning for the Cultural Sector.
At the heart of my CRM education lay a collection of courses and specialized certificates that shaped my understanding of this captivating field. Through the Heritage Resource Management courses I dived into the principles and practices of heritage conservation, illuminating how our concept of heritage has expanded beyond buildings and structures to encompass historic districts, cultural landscapes, and living heritage. This expanded perspective profoundly influenced the strategies employed to safeguard our precious historic places and redefined the role of heritage practitioners. The Community Engagement and Social Change course propelled me into a new realm of relevance and sustainability for museums and cultural organizations, showing me how community engagement serves as a catalyst for transformative journeys. And with the Digital Planning for the Cultural Sector certificate, I explored the dynamic intersection between technology and cultural initiatives, embracing the power of digital platforms to preserve and disseminate our heritage.
No journey is complete without the guidance of exceptional individuals who shape our path. Dr. Candace Tangorra Matelic became a guiding light, teaching me the importance of community and immersing me in the profound impact it has on cultural initiatives. Meanwhile, Bryan Smith led me on an exhilarating exploration of contemporary museum digital initiatives, unveiling a world of endless possibilities. With their expertise and passion, these exceptional professors instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference in the realm of cultural resource management.
As I reflect on my CRM diploma from the University of Victoria, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. A special thank you the The Whyte Museum as they significantly helped me as I started and moved through the courses. This remarkable journey has allowed me to combine my artistic background with the profound significance of cultural preservation. Armed with newfound knowledge, skills, and a burning passion, I am prepared to embark on a career that not only safeguards our heritage but also nurtures the very essence of our communities. The University of Victoria has been the catalyst for my transformation, and I am forever indebted to the vibrant world of cultural resource management for embracing me with open arms. With each step I take, I strive to unveil the hidden treasures of our past, ensuring that they shine brightly for generations to come.*
Malign Lake, Jasper, Alberta. Currently my favourite photo taken on a trip to Jasper with my daughter. I hope to pull these colours into future ceramic pieces.
*Does my blog have a different tone then normal? I used chatgbt to help generate this post.