BROCKTON, MASSACHUSETTS.- The Board of Directors of the Fuller Museum of Art voted unanimously to change the focus of the institution to the field of contemporary craft. Contemporary craft includes one of a kind works of art in a variety of media (glass, metal, wood, ceramics, fiber) with a basis in both form and function. By shifting its focus, the Fuller will join the ranks of a select few craft museums in the U.S., including the American Craft Museum, the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian, and the Corning Museum of Glass. Future programming will showcase master craftspeople as well as emerging contemporary artists who use craft materials in new ways.

By differentiating its offerings, the museum will establish itself as a distinct institution in a clearly defined craft niche. This strategic shift will allow the FMA to capitalize on the success of past craft exhibitions, to better utilize its existing collection of craft works, and to appeal to a larger regional audience as the only craft museum in New England. The New England region has a rich history of crafts and workmanship. The FMA will collaborate with craft institutions, recognized craft artists, galleries, community associations and patrons to heighten public awareness, understanding and appreciation of fine crafts.

Positioning the Fuller Museum as a unique regional institution will benefit Plymouth County and the city of Brockton by drawing craft collectors, practitioners and visitors to the area. A crafts focus will provide access to new constituents while appealing to current members and art patrons. The Education Department and Museum School will be better able to serve the community by offering additional programming in crafts to complement the art courses and programs currently enjoyed. Notable works from the FMA permanent collection will continue to be displayed in a gallery dedicated to art, and will facilitate lesson planning for the surrounding school system.