Call for Applications
ACASA Provenance Workshop
November 9–10, 2026 | Chicago, Illinois
Submission Portal: https://forms.gle/oN4LRZJ2r2SRGqxC8
ACASA invites applications for its inaugural Provenance Workshop, a new initiative designed to invite dialogue, collaboration, and skill-building around provenance research and the stewardship of African art collections.
As museums, scholars, and cultural institutions continue to grapple with questions of ownership, collecting histories, accessibility, transparency, and ethical responsibility, provenance research continues to be an increasingly important area of practice and inquiry. This workshop aims to create a dedicated space for participants to engage with emerging methodologies, current debates, and practical approaches to provenance research while building connections with colleagues across the field.
This two-day, in-person program is hosted by the Smart Museum of Art at the University of Chicago and the Art Institute of Chicago. It will bring together scholars, museum professionals, graduate students, independent researchers, and emerging leaders for focused discussions and hands-on learning with experts in the field.
The workshop will feature a keynote address, an opening reception, and three interactive sessions discussing topics of:
- Ethics, Legality, and Responsibility in Provenance Research
- Provenance and Public Engagement
- Making United States African Art Collections Accessible
To ensure meaningful discussion and active participation, the event is limited to 20 participants. Admission will be determined through a competitive application process with applications reviewed by a committee.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be an active ACASA member
- Demonstrate a strong interest in provenance research, museum practice, collections accessibility, cultural heritage, or related fields
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Statement of Interest (maximum 500 words) describing their background, interest in the workshop, and how participation will support their current or future work
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3 pages)
Application Timeline
- Application Portal Opens: July 8, 2026
- Application Deadline: August 5, 2026
- Notification of Acceptance: Early September 2026
Registration and Funding
ACASA is unable to provide funding for this workshop, but is able to provide no registration costs for those invited to attend. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering all travel, accommodation, and related expenses.
This workshop is designed to be an ongoing program that supports learning and collaboration around provenance research and related issues in the field of African art.
ACASA plans to offer a future virtual provenance workshop to ensure broader accessibility and participation, especially for those unable to travel. ACASA aims to host these workshops during non-Triennial years, alternating between in-person and virtual formats pending participant feedback, member interest, and the availability of funding and institutional partnerships. Through this initiative, ACASA is working to develop member networks, create training opportunities, and support ongoing conversations about topics important to our members.
Please submit all required materials via this link: https://forms.gle/oN4LRZJ2r2SRGqxC8
For questions, please contact Allison Martino, ACASA Secretary, at secretary@acasaonline.org