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Dr. Elizabeth Kathleen Mitchell has recently been appointed as the curator of prints and drawings at the McNay Art Museum in San Antonio, Texas, joining a team of five other curators. With a PhD in Eighteenth Century British prints from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Mitchell brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at the Cantor Center for Visual Arts at Stanford University, the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston, and as a lecturer at various institutions. In an interview with Antiques and The Arts Weekly, Mitchell shared insights into her new role, her career trajectory, and her aspirations for the McNay.
The Role of Curator of Prints and Drawings
As the curator of prints and drawings, Mitchell’s responsibilities include collaborating with her team to identify acquisitions and develop exhibitions for the museum. Having only been in the position for three weeks at the time of the interview, she is focused on familiarizing herself with the McNay’s permanent collection and the broader arts community in San Antonio. She is eager to propose new exhibition ideas and acquisitions that will resonate with the museum’s audience.
One unique aspect of her role is overseeing the annual McNay Print Fair, a significant event in Texas that celebrates its 29th anniversary this year. The fair is a testament to the museum’s commitment to printmaking and drawing, and Mitchell is excited to contribute to its continued success.
Comparing Past and Present Roles
Mitchell highlighted the parallels between her new position and her previous roles. She noted that the McNay Art Museum, much like the Cantor Arts Center, is deeply rooted in the vision of its founder, Marion Koogler McNay, whose passion for art shaped the institution. Similarly, the MFA Boston reflects the cultural identity of its city, a characteristic she also sees in the McNay’s connection to San Antonio.
However, one key difference is the McNay Print Fair, which adds a unique dimension to her curatorial responsibilities. Mitchell’s experience at the Cantor Center and MFA Boston has prepared her for the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of her new role, but she is eager to embrace the distinct opportunities the McNay offers.
The Influence of Undergraduate Education
Mitchell’s undergraduate education at the University of Wyoming, Laramie, where she majored in Spanish and liberal arts, has had a lasting impact on her career. Although the university did not offer an art history major at the time, she crafted her own path by studying studio art, English, philosophy, Golden Age Spanish literature, and women’s studies. This interdisciplinary approach taught her to think across cultures, disciplines, and time periods, skills that continue to inform her work as a curator. She credits this foundation with shaping her ability to identify cultural patterns and tell meaningful stories through art.
The Impact of Teaching
Mitchell’s experience as a lecturer at Stanford University, Massachusetts College of Art, and the University of California, Santa Barbara, has also influenced her curatorial practice. Teaching studio art students at MassArt, in particular, was a transformative experience. Engaging with students who were actively creating art allowed for deep discussions about subject matter, process, and materials. These interactions not only enriched her understanding of art but also reinforced the importance of connecting historical and contemporary practices. Seeing students apply what they learned in class to their own work was a powerful reminder of the impact of art education.
Looking Ahead
Mitchell is enthusiastic about the opportunities her new position presents. She is particularly drawn to the vibrant arts scene in Texas, which she describes as “like living in the future.” The state’s rich history of modern art, combined with its dynamic contemporary culture, offers a fertile ground for curatorial exploration. Mitchell is eager to make acquisitions that resonate with the McNay’s audience and build connections between the museum’s existing collection and new works.
Conclusion
Dr. Elizabeth Kathleen Mitchell’s appointment as curator of prints and drawings at the McNay Art Museum marks an exciting new chapter in her career. Her diverse background, spanning academia, curatorial work, and teaching, has equipped her with the skills and perspective needed to contribute meaningfully to the museum’s mission. As she settles into her role, Mitchell is poised to bring fresh ideas and insights to the McNay, ensuring that its collection and exhibitions continue to inspire and engage audiences. With her passion for art and her interdisciplinary approach, Mitchell is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the museum and the broader arts community in San Antonio.
