There were several inaccuracies related to Affirmations’ Social and Enrichment Coordinator, Maureen Jones, in the May 14 article about Affirmations’ Pittmann-Puckett Art Gallery. Maureen Jones did, in fact, review and approve only three of the images to be shown in the collection, with the expectation that the rest of the exhibit would be similarly themed. She did not review and approve the entire final collection beforehand. This is consistent in working with newer artists and/or shows where the full collection is not readily available for viewing until ready to be hung, so a sampling is approved. The adult-oriented images in question were not identified for the show nor discussed with her by the artist.
In the article, a statement about internal communications issues was taken out of context and applied solely to Maureen Jones. This was inaccurate, unfair, and damaging to the reputation of a staff person who has brought tremendous success and acclaim to the Pittmann-Puckett Art Gallery. Anyone who has been involved with the art gallery at Affirmations knows that Ms. Jones has expertly overseen the space since moving to the new building and has brought previously unseen success to the project, featuring both nationally-known and acclaimed artists as well as lesser-known local artists that inspire thought and conversation about critical issues facing the LGBT community.
We at Affirmations are encouraged by the community dialogue over Kristin Kurzawa’s work and look forward to on-going conversation about the art displayed at the Pittmann-Puckett Art Gallery. For more information or to voice your thoughts on the subject, please visit the art gallery page at www.goaffirmations.org.
{ITAL Kathleen LaTosch
Affirmations Chief Administrative Officer}
