The Newark Museum: A pioneer in collecting art quilts by Sandra Sider
T
he Newark Museum is New Jersey’s largest museum, holding fine collections of American art, decorative arts, contemporary art, and arts of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and of the ancient world. The size of its collection is the 12th largest among museums in the United States. Founding director John Cotton Dana believed that museums were established to promote the appreciation, understanding, and enjoyment of the arts and sciences. Together with a group of public officials, prominent business people, and local collectors, he established the Museum in
Anonymous, Wild Goose Chase 90 x 90 inches, early 19th century Pieced wool. Purchase 1918.
36 | SAQA Art Quilt Collector
1909 at the Newark Public Library. Dana provided the intellectual leadership that made it one of the most progressive cultural institutions in the country. The art and science collections are used to educate, inspire, and transform individuals of all ages, as well as the communities served by the Museum. I met with curator Ulysses Dietz in November for a tour of the Newark Museum and discussion about the art quilt collection. S: What is your position at the Newark Museum and for how long have you served in that capacity?
