As
I'm sure you've noticed, SAMFA has been in the news recently. I will be
the first to say that some of the news has been challenging. Let me take
this opportunity to explain a relationship that many people may not understand.
The Museum, since moving into its quarters here on Love Street, has had
a contractual agreement with ASU and the state of Texas. A portion of the
Museum building houses ASU art facilities. Thus, the Museum facility directly
benefits ASU's programs and students. State funding is provided to ASU directly
for the purpose of sharing in the Museum's operating costs. The Museum/ASU
collaboration benefits our University at a tremendous cost savings to the
taxpayers of Texas. This relationship could and should be a model for other
organizations seeking to pool resources for mutual benefit. Although the
funding for this relationship was approved by both houses of the legislature,
unfortunately, it was vetoed by the Governor as a part of a much larger
package of special funding for higher education. We are currently exploring
ways to address the problem and have great hopes that this issue will soon
be resolved satisfactorily for everyone.
The Museum recently lost one of its beloved patrons, Eva Camuñez
Tucker. SAMFA is greatly indebted to Eva. She was among the original founders
of the Museum and continued to support its programs with great benevolence.
Her passing is a sad loss to the Museum and the entire community. She was
a person of great wealth and greater generosity, a truly inspirational human
being.
While distinct challenges lie ahead for us, I am excited about the future
and the potential for the Museum and the community to continue crafting
civic projects that will enhance San Angelo and fulfill its reputation as
an oasis in every sense of the word. The Museum looks forward to an evolving
relationship with ASU through the Texas Tech system, and a growing partnership
with San Angelo Independent School District in fostering creative expression
for school children of all ages. Many exciting ventures are just around
the corner.
Howard Taylor
San Angelo Museum
of Fine Arts
One Love Street
San Angelo, Texas 76903
Fax: (325) 658 - 6800
Phone: (325) 653 -
3333
e-mail:
museum@samfa.org