Kim Sajet's Legacy: Leadership & Representation at the National Portrait Gallery

Kim Sajet at the National Portrait Gallery: A Legacy of Leadership and Representation

Kim Sajet's tenure as the Director of the National Portrait Gallery (NPG), a Smithsonian Institution museum, marked a period of significant transformation. Her leadership, spanning from 2013 to 2023, was characterized by a commitment to expanding representation, embracing innovation, and fostering a more inclusive and engaging experience for visitors. This article delves into Sajet's impact on the NPG, examining her key initiatives, the challenges she faced, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Early Life and Career Trajectory

Before assuming the directorship of the National Portrait Gallery, Kim Sajet established a distinguished career in the museum world. Her journey began with a strong educational foundation and a passion for art and history. She held key positions at various institutions, which allowed her to hone her skills in leadership, curatorial practice, and museum administration.

• Early Education: While specifics of her early education are not always highlighted, her later academic achievements demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual curiosity.
• Pre-NPG Roles: Prior to her tenure at the NPG, Sajet served as the President and CEO of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, as well as directorial positions at the Portland History Museum and the Tacoma Art Museum. These roles provided her with invaluable experience in managing complex organizations, engaging diverse audiences, and developing innovative programming. These roles shaped her perspective on the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in museums.

Vision and Goals Upon Entering the National Portrait Gallery

Upon assuming the directorship of the NPG in 2013, Kim Sajet articulated a clear vision for the museum's future. This vision centered on expanding the definition of portraiture, diversifying the collection, and engaging a broader audience. Her goals included:

• Diversifying the Collection: Sajet aimed to acquire portraits that reflected the diversity of American society, including individuals from underrepresented racial, ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Expanding the Definition of Portraiture: She sought to challenge traditional notions of portraiture by incorporating new media, innovative techniques, and unconventional subjects.
• Increasing Accessibility: Sajet prioritized making the museum more accessible to a wider audience through online resources, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives.
• Enhancing Visitor Engagement: She aimed to create more interactive and engaging experiences for visitors, encouraging them to connect with the portraits on a personal level.
• Modernizing Exhibits: Sajet pushed for innovative exhibit designs and layouts, aiming to create a more immersive and thought-provoking experience for museum-goers.

These goals reflected Sajet's deep understanding of the changing landscape of museums and her commitment to making the NPG a relevant and engaging institution for the 21st century.

Key Initiatives and Achievements Under Sajet's Leadership

During her decade-long tenure, Kim Sajet spearheaded a number of key initiatives that significantly impacted the National Portrait Gallery. These initiatives demonstrated her commitment to her vision and resulted in tangible achievements for the museum.

Expanding Representation in the Collection

One of Sajet's most significant achievements was her success in diversifying the NPG's collection. She actively sought out portraits of individuals who had been historically underrepresented, including African Americans, Latinos, Asian Americans, Native Americans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women.

• Strategic Acquisitions: Sajet implemented a strategic acquisition plan that prioritized portraits of diverse figures. This involved actively seeking out works by artists from underrepresented backgrounds and commissioning portraits of contemporary leaders and cultural icons.
• Notable Examples:
  • The acquisition of Amy Sherald's portrait of Michelle Obama. This acquisition significantly boosted attendance and public interest. Sherald's unique artistic style and the iconic status of Michelle Obama created a powerful combination.
  • The commissioning of portraits of figures like Lin-Manuel Miranda, creator of the Broadway hit "Hamilton."
• Impact on the Collection: These acquisitions dramatically increased the diversity of the NPG's collection, making it more representative of the American population.

These changes were not just about numbers; they were about telling a more complete and accurate story of American history and culture.

Transforming Exhibition Practices

Sajet also oversaw a transformation of the NPG's exhibition practices. She championed innovative exhibition designs, incorporated new technologies, and developed more engaging interpretive materials.

• Innovative Exhibition Design: She encouraged curators to experiment with new approaches to exhibition design, creating more immersive and interactive experiences for visitors.
• Technology Integration: Sajet embraced the use of technology in exhibitions, incorporating digital displays, interactive kiosks, and virtual reality experiences to enhance visitor engagement.
• Examples of Transformed Exhibitions:
  • "The Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition": This triennial competition showcased contemporary portraiture from across the country, highlighting diverse artistic styles and perspectives.
  • Exhibitions focused on specific themes or historical periods, such as the Civil Rights Movement, providing context and analysis.

Enhancing Digital Accessibility and Outreach

Recognizing the importance of digital accessibility, Sajet invested in expanding the NPG's online presence. She oversaw the development of new online resources, virtual tours, and digital educational programs.

• Online Resources: The NPG's website was revamped to provide more comprehensive information about the collection, exhibitions, and programs.
• Virtual Tours: Virtual tours were created to allow visitors from around the world to experience the NPG's collection remotely.
• Digital Educational Programs: Online educational programs were developed to engage students and educators with the NPG's collection.

Fostering Community Engagement

Sajet prioritized community engagement, developing partnerships with local organizations and launching programs that reached out to underserved communities.

• Community Partnerships: The NPG partnered with local schools, community centers, and cultural organizations to offer workshops, lectures, and other programs.
• Outreach Initiatives: Sajet launched initiatives to bring the NPG's collection and programs to underserved communities, including mobile exhibitions and outreach events.

Challenges Faced During Her Tenure

While Sajet's tenure was marked by numerous successes, she also faced a number of challenges. These challenges included:

• Budget Constraints: Like many museums, the NPG faced budget constraints that limited its ability to acquire new works, develop new programs, and maintain its facilities.
• Political Scrutiny: The NPG, as a Smithsonian Institution museum, was subject to political scrutiny, particularly regarding its acquisitions and exhibitions. Controversies surrounding portraits, especially those of political figures, could attract media attention and public debate.
• Navigating Controversies: Certain acquisitions and exhibitions sparked controversy, requiring Sajet to navigate complex political and social issues.
• Maintaining Relevance in a Changing World: Museums face the ongoing challenge of staying relevant in a rapidly changing world. Sajet had to adapt the NPG's programs and exhibitions to appeal to a diverse and evolving audience.
• COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for museums, including closures, reduced attendance, and the need to develop new virtual programming. Sajet led the NPG through this difficult period, adapting its operations and ensuring that it continued to serve its mission.

Addressing these challenges required strong leadership, strategic decision-making, and effective communication.

The Impact of Sajet's Leadership on Representation

Kim Sajet's most enduring legacy may be her impact on representation at the National Portrait Gallery. Her efforts to diversify the collection, expand the definition of portraiture, and engage a broader audience have transformed the NPG into a more inclusive and relevant institution.

Increased Diversity in the Collection

The NPG's collection is now significantly more diverse than it was when Sajet took office. This increased diversity reflects a broader understanding of American history and culture, and it allows visitors from all backgrounds to see themselves reflected in the museum's holdings.

Shifting the Narrative of American Portraiture

Sajet's leadership helped to shift the narrative of American portraiture, moving away from a focus on elite figures and towards a more inclusive representation of the American people. This shift has made the NPG a more relevant and engaging institution for a wider audience.

Empowering Underrepresented Artists and Subjects

By acquiring works by underrepresented artists and commissioning portraits of diverse figures, Sajet empowered these individuals and gave them a platform to share their stories. This empowerment has had a ripple effect, inspiring other museums to follow suit and contributing to a broader movement for diversity and inclusion in the art world.

Leadership Style and Management Approach

Kim Sajet's leadership style was characterized by a combination of vision, collaboration, and decisiveness. She was known for her ability to inspire her staff, build consensus, and make tough decisions when necessary.

• Visionary Leadership: Sajet had a clear vision for the NPG's future, and she was able to articulate that vision in a way that inspired her staff and stakeholders.
• Collaborative Approach: She fostered a collaborative environment at the NPG, encouraging staff to share their ideas and work together towards common goals.
• Decisive Decision-Making: Sajet was not afraid to make tough decisions, even when they were unpopular. She was willing to take risks and experiment with new approaches, always with the goal of improving the NPG.
• Advocacy and Fundraising: Sajet was a strong advocate for the NPG, both within the Smithsonian Institution and in the broader community. She was also a successful fundraiser, securing significant donations to support the museum's programs and acquisitions.

Impact on the Museum Community and Beyond

Kim Sajet's influence extended beyond the National Portrait Gallery. She was a respected leader in the museum community, and her work at the NPG served as a model for other institutions seeking to expand representation and engage a broader audience.

• Influence on Museum Practices: Sajet's initiatives at the NPG influenced museum practices across the country, encouraging other institutions to prioritize diversity, accessibility, and community engagement.
• Speaking Engagements and Publications: Sajet was a frequent speaker at museum conferences and symposia, sharing her insights and experiences with colleagues from around the world. She also published articles and essays on museum leadership, representation, and the role of museums in society.
• Mentorship and Professional Development: Sajet was a mentor to many young museum professionals, helping them to develop their skills and advance their careers. She also supported professional development opportunities for her staff at the NPG.

Critical Assessments and Reviews

Kim Sajet's leadership at the National Portrait Gallery has been the subject of critical assessment and review. While her tenure has been widely praised, some critics have raised concerns about certain aspects of her leadership.

• Positive Reviews: Many critics have praised Sajet for her vision, her commitment to diversity, and her ability to transform the NPG into a more relevant and engaging institution. They have also lauded her fundraising abilities and her success in raising the museum's profile.
• Constructive Criticisms: Some critics have raised concerns about the NPG's reliance on contemporary portraiture, arguing that it has come at the expense of historical works. Others have questioned the museum's decision to acquire certain controversial portraits.
• Scholarly Articles and Essays: Various scholars and museum professionals have written about Sajet's leadership and its impact on the NPG. These writings provide valuable insights into her strategies, challenges, and achievements.

Overall, the critical assessments of Sajet's leadership have been largely positive, recognizing her significant contributions to the National Portrait Gallery and the museum community.

The Future of the National Portrait Gallery After Sajet's Departure

Following Kim Sajet's departure in 2023, the National Portrait Gallery faces the challenge of building on her legacy and continuing to evolve as an institution. The next director will need to address a number of key issues, including:

• Maintaining Momentum on Diversity and Inclusion: The NPG must continue to prioritize diversity and inclusion in its acquisitions, exhibitions, and programs. This will require a sustained commitment from the museum's leadership and staff.
• Adapting to Changing Audience Expectations: The NPG must continue to adapt to changing audience expectations, incorporating new technologies and developing innovative programming that appeals to a diverse and evolving audience.
• Securing Funding and Resources: The NPG must continue to secure funding and resources to support its programs and operations. This will require a strong fundraising strategy and effective advocacy within the Smithsonian Institution and the broader community.
• Balancing Tradition and Innovation: The NPG must strike a balance between preserving its historical legacy and embracing innovation. This will require careful consideration of the museum's mission and its role in society.

The future of the National Portrait Gallery is bright, but it will require strong leadership and a continued commitment to the values of diversity, accessibility, and engagement that Kim Sajet championed during her tenure.

Lasting Legacy and Contributions

Kim Sajet leaves behind a lasting legacy at the National Portrait Gallery. Her contributions have transformed the museum into a more inclusive, relevant, and engaging institution for the 21st century.

• A More Diverse and Representative Collection: The NPG's collection is now significantly more diverse than it was when Sajet took office, reflecting a broader understanding of American history and culture.
• Innovative Exhibition Practices: Sajet oversaw a transformation of the NPG's exhibition practices, incorporating new technologies and developing more engaging interpretive materials.
• Enhanced Digital Accessibility: Sajet invested in expanding the NPG's online presence, making its collection and programs more accessible to a global audience.
• A More Engaged and Inclusive Community: Sajet prioritized community engagement, developing partnerships with local organizations and launching programs that reached out to underserved communities.

Kim Sajet's leadership has had a profound impact on the National Portrait Gallery and the museum community as a whole. Her legacy will continue to inspire and influence the NPG for years to come.

Conclusion

Kim Sajet's directorship at the National Portrait Gallery was a period of remarkable growth and transformation. Her unwavering commitment to expanding representation, embracing innovation, and fostering community engagement has left an indelible mark on the institution. By diversifying the collection, modernizing exhibitions, and enhancing digital accessibility, Sajet ensured that the NPG remained relevant and accessible to a broad audience. While challenges undoubtedly arose during her tenure, her leadership style, characterized by vision, collaboration, and decisive action, enabled the NPG to overcome these obstacles and emerge as a leading voice in the museum world.

Her legacy extends beyond the walls of the NPG, influencing museum practices across the country and inspiring a new generation of museum professionals. As the National Portrait Gallery moves forward, it will undoubtedly build upon the foundation that Kim Sajet laid, continuing to champion diversity, inclusivity, and engagement in the years to come. Her contributions serve as a testament to the power of visionary leadership in shaping cultural institutions and fostering a more inclusive understanding of American history and identity.