Collection Scholarship

MAM is committed to developing educational resources that examine contemporary art and expand our understanding of the creative process, artistic innovation, and modern histories that shape our experiences of this place. Scholarship prepared by staff, interns and commissioned writers help MAM to achieve its mission to engage the community with contemporary art and break down barriers to contemporary art.

A Common Tongue for a Divisive Time: An Analysis of John Buck's Symbols


Danielle Turner, Collections Intern, Summer 2018; BFA, Fine Art, University of Montana, 2019
. In-depth interpretation of contemporary and historical meanings of John Buck's woodcut, "A Common Tongue."

I Call Us Interdisciplinarians


Cassidy Schoenfelder, Collections Intern, 2016-17; BFA, Fine Art, University of Montana, 2017. Summary of significant themes in the work of Missoula artist Patricia Forsberg, based on an interview with the artist.

Kindred Spirits: Tracing Connection

Kathleen E. Kurz, Collections Intern, 2006, MA, Anthropology, University of Montana, 2006
. Analysis of 18 MAM Collection artworks and complementary objects of historical and cultural significance borrowed from The People’s Center, The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, and other regional collections.