Objects and sites have stories to tell about people-the people who made them, who used them, who loved them, and who preserved them. Our field can help tell parts of those stories, but the full history and meaning of an object, site or building can often only be told through collaborations with others. The artist/maker, Elders, Knowledge Keepers and source communities know the intent behind the act of creation and the emotional value and meaning of an object or location in a way we never may. Their insights into whether and how something should be studied, displayed, and preserved should inform our work.
Collaborations with colleagues in different fields that use new techniques or that bring specialized knowledge to bear may bring insights we might not be otherwise able to glean by ourselves, or lead to the development of new treatment or analytical methodologies. Our telling the stories about what we have learned may inspire others to enter the preservation field, build bridges to neglected communities, or perhaps the way an institution operates. We are all stronger when we are together, none of us operate in a vacuum, so this year we want to hear your story about the power of working with others.