Wadsworth board off base

The article began with Susan Dunne cutely referring to the Wadsworth’s “stodgy” image and was followed by fashionable criticisms about the aloofness of the institution [Page 1, April 11, “‘We’ve become a little too historic’ ”].

“The results were eye-opening,” said William R. Peelle Jr., chairman of the Wadsworth board of trustees, regarding the solo tours taken by 30 board members. Inspired by a consultant to develop a strategic plan, they were “surprised” by the oldness of everything, found little that would grab you, and felt there was a general lack of enthusiasm in the galleries. Were they talking about the institution I know? I hope they visited the Amistad Center for Art and Culture and read the Center’s “Commitment to Education” and “Learning from the Collection.”

Mr. Peelle questions what the responsibility is to our citizens. The responsibility is to present the art and culture of people all over the world and, as was the case, with emphasis on Western culture. Truly, that should always have included people of color, but our ideas of government and institutions are, mostly, European, and collections at the Wadsworth reflect that. With some imagination one can see that there is a universal, human element shared by the art of Europe and Africa.

Even the façade of the Wadsworth did not escape condemnation as a place where “people do not feel comfortable to visit.” Tell them the history of the building and architectural styles and they will get over it, if indeed it is a problem.

The problem is not with the art and the beautifully restored galleries, but the lack of appreciation and sensitivity of the board members does belie their positions on the board. Please appreciate the richness of the collections and build up, rather than put down. Consider the artistic value of the Wadsworth for the Greater Hartford community.

R. J. Luke Williams, West Hartford