Pierson Brown is a masters candidate at New York University, expected to graduate in May 2023. She is pursuing a MA in Museum Studies, beginning on a career path towards curation. Her main interest is contemporary art, with a particular focus in increasing visitor engagement and accessibility within museums. Originally from Rocky Face, Georgia, she is excited to be a part of the New York City community. With extensive volunteer, travel, professional, and educational experiences, she is prepared and eager to enter the museum field.
Pierson's undergraduate degree was received from American University. This Interdisciplinary Degree combined Communications, Legal Institutions, Economics, and Government (CLEG). In addition, she received a minor in Art History and an Advanced Leadership Studies Certificate. She was a member of American University Scholars and the School of Public Affairs Leadership Program, as well as the Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society. Through CLEG and the two programs she participated in, she was able to further develop her skills and talents.
In the Summer of 2021, Pierson was member of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum's Summer College Workshop. This program centered around the museum's exhibition entitled Off the Record, which focuses on artists that reappropriate documents in their works. Each week, the class of 14 students met with guest speakers to discuss the role of archives, biases in Western history, and the lack of neutrality in record keeping. The course culminated with a published e-book including each student's unique research project. Pierson's research focused on the New Mountain Opry in Signal Mountain, TN and the role of bluegrass music in preserving Appalachian history.
Professionally, Pierson has participated in several rewarding experiences. She recently completed an internship at the Heurich House Museum in Washington, D.C. Working with their Education department, she conducted archival research, wrote content for upcoming exhibitions, and collaborated with fellow interns to create educational social media content. In addition, she worked under the museum's director to reevaluate the institution's document retention plan and begin creating a succession plan. This was a unique opportunity for Pierson to engage with the D.C. community as the Heurich House has a rich history in Dupont Circle and operates on a much smaller scale than other major museums.
In addition, Pierson also completed a role with The Creative Process as an Associate Podcast Producer and Interviewer. Her focus in this role centered around art history, curation, and sustainability. The Creative Process is in part a podcast that receives over 4,500 listens per day and also a creative traveling exhibition that shares interviews in a gallery setting. Guests on the podcast and in the exhibit have included the chief curators of major museums, Tony award winning writers and actors, contemporary artists, and others directly involved in current artistic fields. This opportunity allowed Pierson to learn more about museum education, curatorial practices, and global climate initiatives.
Recreationally, Pierson enjoys going out into the city to experience new events and learn about new cultures. She spends her free time hiking, collecting works from small artists, and enjoying all New York has to offer. With the diversity of the city, there are always new opportunities to learn and meet others. This pairs well with her love of art history, culture, and travel. She is passionate about building community and making new connections. By learning about the world around her, she is always growing and becoming a stronger leader.
