In MOIFA’s 70-year history as a museum, there has never been an exhibition curated by all staff together to share their perspectives and experiences.

34 staff members from six departments and two foundations have selected two artworks from the museum’s permanent collection for a variety of reasons: from memorable past exhibitions, bringing awareness to a topic they are passionate about, a personal connection, or a work of art that simply sparks joy.

Through allowing access to collections storage and acknowledging staff’s individual expertise, this exhibition highlights artworks from 23 countries and 37 artists using a variety of mediums and ways of making.

Carved birds, Ben Ortega, Tesuque, New Mexico, Late 20th century, Wood, glue, Museum of International Folk Art, Gift of the Friends of Folk Art, A.2016.52.11