Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
The Seminar on Strategy for Artist-Endowed Foundation Leaders supports the professional development of individuals who currently have, or will have, policy-setting, governance, management, and leadership responsibilities for Artist-Endowed Foundations—directors, officers, trustees, board members, senior staff—as well as those supporting an artist’s stewardship planning efforts with respect to a potential foundation.
Presented biennially by the Aspen Institute Artist-Endowed Foundations Initiative | AEFI, the Seminar educates leaders about the characteristics of these distinctive charitable organizations, including foundations’ complex business models, diverse philanthropic practices, influential art historical roles, and manifold governance and management requirements.
The Seminar curriculum is based on findings of AEFI’s National Study of Artist-Endowed Foundations and subsequent research publications. It focuses specifically on the strategic concerns of leaders orienting themselves to the field. Site visits and conversations with seasoned foundation directors are central to the curriculum, which is presented by scholars, experts, and AEF leaders.
