Cincinnati Art Musem
The Cincinnati Art Museum is a cornerstone of the region's cultural landscape, housing one of the most comprehensive art collections in the Midwest. While the Museum already offers free admission, vibrant exhibitions, and unique family events, its leadership recognized the need to expand its reach and better reflect the diversity of the community it serves.
To advance racial equity and social inclusion, the Museum sought to diversify its offerings, create a more welcoming environment, and position itself as a catalyst for meaningful community change.
Our Approach
In partnership with Cohear, the Museum conducted a multi-faceted engagement process, including:
Six Focus Groups with 62 participants, representing key demographics such as:
Artists of color
Residents of nearby neighborhoods
Families with school-age children
Seniors over 60
Longtime Museum members
Community members at large
Quantitative Community Surveys to identify groups with the strongest and most distinct perspectives.
Focus group conversations explored participants’ experiences with the Museum, perceptions of its inclusivity, and opportunities for growth.
What We Heard
From these insights, actionable recommendations emerged:
Diversify the Museum: Enhance inclusivity by expanding diversity in the permanent collection, exhibitions, board, and staff.
Partner with Local Artists: Highlight and fund the work of diverse artists, especially Black artists, through exhibitions and collaborations.
Engage Digitally: Rethink the digital strategy to be more interactive, engaging, and inclusive of diverse communities.
Create Family-Friendly Spaces: Develop child-focused areas and hands-on, educational programs to attract more families.
Offer Social Experiences: Introduce innovative onsite and offsite events to draw new visitors and encourage repeat attendance.
Strengthen Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations to increase awareness and enhance the Museum’s reputation.
The Impact
The Museum is now equipped with a roadmap to drive greater inclusion and equity, supported by community voices. This engagement process:
Amplified the perspectives of historically underrepresented groups.
Highlighted actionable opportunities to make the Museum more vibrant and accessible.
Positioned the Museum as a leader in fostering racial reconciliation and community connection.
