As the twentieth century nears its end, a group of
people in the United States and in Europe have taken the initiative
of creating a new museum: The Museum of European Art in Clarence, New
York. This decision was made at a time when the confrontation between
the superpowers of East and West was coming to an end, and the work
for peace among peoples became the official policy of the world's
leading nations. The founders of this institution say today: "A
museum is born, to serve the people."
In the United States, President Bill Clinton now carries the
responsibility which previously was borne by the great presidents
George Bush and Ronald Reagan. In Europe, Germany, reunited in peace
and freedom, is acquiring greater significance under the leadership
of Chancellor Helmut Kohl. The cultural nation of France is claiming
an international position under President Francois Mitterand. Russia,
under President Boris Yeltsin, is extending the hand of peace to its
former enemies. The Czech Republic, a former East Block country,
functions today as a model for similar countries in central and
eastern Europe. Queen Elizabeth of Great Britain and King Juan Carlos
in Spain are proving themselves preservers of tradition and
culture.
In this positive political atmosphere, free citizens are asked to
make a contribution to the society of today as well as the future.
This the Museum of European Art in the United States does. The
cultural work of this institution cannot--nor does it wish
to--compete with the great museums that have operated with extensive
government support for decades. Nevertheless, the Museum of European
Art is a valuable addition to the cultural landscape. It teaches
about contemporary artists and presents, in exhibits both within and
without, the works of men and women which we, due to their style,
call "European art." Another objective of our museum is to arouse the
curiosity of young people in art which has its roots in the countries
of Europe from which their forefathers once emigrated. Contact with
art enriches our personal lives. In addition, it gives us a better
understanding and a greater respect for the cultures of other nations
all over the world.
It is therefore to be hoped that now and in the future the museum
will acquire a great popularity in the form of financial support from
citizens bound up in tradition, many visits from both young and old
to see the exhibits, and a good working relationship with the
artists. 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 the
people."