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Mission

The mission of the Portland Art Museum is to engage diverse communities through art and film of enduring quality, and to collect, preserve, and educate for the enrichment of present and future generations.

Philosophy and Core Values

The Portland Art Museum strives to be an inclusive institution that facilitates respectful dialogue, debate, and the free exchange of ideas.  With a deep commitment to artists – past and present – and freedom of expression, the Museum and PAM CUT’s collections, programs and staff aspire to reveal the beauty and complexities of the world, and create a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.  We are a Museum for all, inviting everyone to connect with art through their own experiences, voices, and personal journeys.  The following core values guide the Portland Art Museum:

Creativity
The arts are at the core of our humanity, representing a timeless human impulse.

Connection
The arts touch us and connect us across time, geography, and cultural differences, shedding light on how humans interact with their world.

Equity
To fulfill our mission, our commitment to equity means including, serving, resourcing, validating and centering our colleagues and community members of color on an institutional and individual level.

Learning
The arts open us to diverse ideas and ways of knowing ourselves, our community, and our world.

Accessibility
The arts must be economically, intellectually, and physically accessible to everyone.

Accountability
Transparency and careful stewardship of resources—including collections, staff, facilities, and investments – are essential for mission fulfillment now and in the future.

Vision

The Portland Art Museum is the leading cultural institution in the state and region.  Its hallmarks are innovation, excellence, and engaged community partnerships.  The Museum presents a relevant and dynamic program originating from its collections and PAM CUT. With historically preserved and newly designed architectural space of the highest quality, the Museum invites, inspires, and fosters contemplation and discussion. As a beacon for culture and education for our growing and evolving community, the Museum is known for its exceptional trustees, staff, programs, collections, and visitor amenities.