As the twentieth century nears its end, a group ofpeople in the United States and in Europe have taken the initiativeof creating a new museum: The Museum of European Art in Clarence, NewYork. This decision was made at a time when the confrontation betweenthe superpowers of East and West was coming to an end, and the workfor peace among peoples became the official policy of the world'sleading nations. The founders of this institution say today: "Amuseum is born, to serve the people."
In the United States, President Bill Clinton now carries theresponsibility which previously was borne by the great presidentsGeorge Bush and Ronald Reagan. In Europe, Germany, reunited in peaceand freedom, is acquiring greater significance under the leadershipof Chancellor Helmut Kohl. The cultural nation of France is claimingan international position under President Francois Mitterand. Russia,under President Boris Yeltsin, is extending the hand of peace to itsformer enemies. The Czech Republic, a former East Block country,functions today as a model for similar countries in central andeastern Europe. Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain and King Juan Carlosin Spain are proving themselves preservers of tradition andculture.
In this positive political atmosphere, free citizens are asked tomake a contribution to the society of today as well as the future.This the Museum of European Art in the United States does. Thecultural work of this institution cannot--nor does it wishto--compete with the great museums that have operated with extensivegovernment support for decades. Nevertheless, the Museum of EuropeanArt is a valuable addition to the cultural landscape. It teachesabout contemporary artists and presents, in exhibits both within andwithout, the works of men and women which we, due to their style,call "European art." Another objective of our museum is to arouse thecuriosity of young people in art which has its roots in the countriesof Europe from which their forefathers once emigrated. Contact withart enriches our personal lives. In addition, it gives us a betterunderstanding and a greater respect for the cultures of other nationsall over the world.
It is therefore to be hoped that now and in the future the museumwill acquire a great popularity in the form of financial support fromcitizens bound up in tradition, many visits from both young and oldto see the exhibits, and a good working relationship with theartists. Then we will one day look back on today and be able to say:"A museum was born, and it has served the understanding of thepeople."