How do we help save cultural heritage threatened by war and disaster in places like Haiti, the Caribbean, Iraq and Ukraine?

Dr. Richard Kurin will discuss the Smithsonian’s fascinating efforts to help save cultural heritage in crisis by mobilizing the institution’s expertise and partnering with local, U.S. and international organizations. 

 

He will describe the rescue of invaluable collections buried in the rubble of the 2010 Haitian earthquake, the saving and restoration of the ISIS-damaged Mosul Museum, and current work to protect touchstones of Ukrainian identity amidst the Russian invasion.  Dr. Kurin will elucidate methods of monitoring cultural war crimes via satellite, the process of tracking looted art, and collaborations with the State Department, Homeland Security, and the FBI, as well as a joint project with the U.S. Army to train the next generation of Monuments Men and Women.  He will also talk about FEMA and cultural rescue work in the United States. 

Dr. Kurin has served with the Smithsonian Institution for almost 50 years holding several leadership positions including as Under Secretary.  He is currently the Smithsonian’s Distinguished Scholar and Ambassador-at-Large and founded the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative.    

Advance registration is not required, and this free event is open to all.

 
Connect to the presentation online via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84268052749
Or dial in by phone (for audio only): 301-715-8592
Meeting ID: 842 6805 2749