Cape Ann Museum

The Cape Ann Museum will plan and pilot a multiyear initiative in collaboration with Native American institutions, artists, and scholars in order to increase knowledge and awareness of Native perspectives and experiences in Massachusetts. Museum staff will build on existing partnerships with Tribes indigenous to the area, including the Wampanoags, Nipmuc, and Massachusett, to research and present accurate, authentic information about their art, history, and culture to the public. Project activities include hosting a planning convening; a long-term installation of a traditional domed dwelling known as Wetu; a Native Artist and Scholars in Residence Fellows program; commissioned art shows at the museum and at Historic New England's Sleeper-McCann house; and a commissioned photography exhibition by a Native artist. As a result of this initiative, the museum will embed Native knowledge and culture into its operations, strengthen relationships with Native partners, and increase understanding of Native life in Massachusetts from pre-contact to today.