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Ken Burns named guest curator for America 250 exhibition at Peoria Riverfront Museum
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PEORIA, Ill., June 26, 2024 –
Ken Burns is adding a new title to his long list of credits: museum curator.
The acclaimed documentary filmmaker has been named guest curator at the Peoria Riverfront Museum for its upcoming major exhibition celebrating America's 250th birthday in 2026, also known as the semiquincentennial. The centerpiece of all of the museum’s semiquincentennial activities, the one-of-a-kind,
original exhibition will feature the most important historical American objects of art, science, history, and achievement ever to be assembled in the greater Peoria area. Generous private donors will be helping to fund all activities of the non-profit museum.
The announcement was made at the annual State of the Museum presentation where museum officials traditionally release big news about future exhibitions.
Known to PBS audiences for decades, Ken Burns’ relationship with the greater Peoria community began in 2022, when the Peoria Riverfront Museum hosted thousands of visitors to see an exhibition of the filmmaker’s private quilt collection. Subsequently, under the direction of editor Laurie Baker and sponsorship
of Flo and Sid Banwart, the museum produced Uncovered: The Ken Burns Collection, the first book published about his quilts.
“My relationship with the Peoria Riverfront Museum began when my personal collection of American quilts visited their museum. We share an enthusiasm for the many American stories that make us one,” said Ken Burns. “It is exciting to be involved with this unique multidisciplinary museum as we use the stories
of history to light the way to a brighter future.”
Credited with nearly 40 documentary films on American subjects including the Civil War, jazz, baseball, and the national parks, Ken Burns’ new six-part documentary entitled The American Revolution is set to be released by PBS next year as the country begins to prepare for this historic anniversary.
“Our Peoria perspective offers an important lens on America’s history, and the Peoria Riverfront Museum aspires to be the leader in helping build confidence and spark learning about the story of our nation,” stated board chairman Todd Baker at the State of the Museum announcement.
In his role as guest curator, Ken Burns will serve as advisor to Peoria Riverfront Museum chief curator Bill Conger and staff as they prepare for the original America 250 exhibition scheduled to open in early 2026.
“Peoria is proud to be the one museum to call Ken Burns guest curator, representing Illinois with the only multidisciplinary museum exhibition of its kind in the country celebrating America 250,” said John D. Morris, president and CEO of the Peoria Riverfront Museum.
The board, staff, and members of Peoria Riverfront Museum are planning a series of programs, speakers, films, digital content, and themed activities anchored by the America 250 exhibition.
To receive updates on the Peoria Riverfront Museum plans for America 250, register on the website America250Illinois.org.
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The Peoria Riverfront Museum is the only multidisciplinary institution of its kind in the nation combining art, science, history and achievement. The museum is dedicated to using its collections, exhibitions, film planetarium and programming to tell the stories that build confidence; create a culture of lifelong learning; and unleash the full talent and genius of every individual.
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Contact Melody Konrad, Peoria Riverfront Museum assistant director of marketing and communications at MKonrad@peoriariverfrontmuseum.org.
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