RE-TOOL 21: Art Preparation Skill Development Program
RE-TOOL 21 was a unique series of hands-on skill-building workshops, behind the scenes tours, and opportunities to network with art handling professionals in museums, galleries, exhibition administration and production, and related fields. This 9 week skill development program led by the Office of Engagement at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago provided training in art preparation and handling to groups historically underrepresented in the art preparation field—in particular with regard to experience, age, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, immigration/refugee status, and ethnicity—with the goal of promoting an inclusive, pluralistic arts and culture sector.
Art-service professionals, called art handlers or preparators, provide the important groundwork for the safe and secure installation, de-installation, packaging, and storing of art pieces, objects, and artifacts. With generous support from the Joyce Foundation, RE-TOOL 21, reimagined access and representation in the 21st-century arts and cultural world and workforce. Particiapnts received a stipend as part of the program and after completing 15 training sessions (7 weekends) were placed in a variety of cultural sites across the city to complete their paid practicum portion of the training.
“At the beginning of this practicum experience I didn't know what to expect and was a bit nervous as I didn't feel
confident in my ability to work in a museum as I had never worked in one before. However, once I started to
get to know everyone at the Balzekas I became more comfortable with the environment and ended the practicum
by being offered a position at the museum.”
- RE-TOOL 21 participant from Cohort II, on their practicum experience
Site visit Partners and/or Practicum Training Partners
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National Museum of Mexican Art
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Smart Museum of Art
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MCM Frame Shop & FireCat projects
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Methods & Materials, Inc