The CMA’s Educational Initiatives

In anticipation of a busy spring season of family and adult programming, Cleveland Art spoke with Mary Ladrick, associate director of adult programs and interpretation, and Jeremiah Myers, director of school and teaching programs. Together, they discussed learning goals, audience engagement, and what visitors can expect from the museum’s educational initiatives. Be sure to visit the online calendar for the full lineup of programs.

What is the overarching vision guiding the CMA’s family and adult programming?

JM: Our goal in family programming is to complement exhibitions and works in the collection by finding connections with all types of families who come together to enjoy what the museum has to offer.

ML: Adult programming aims to offer a wide range of topics and formats for all learners. The goal is meaningful engagement with the collection. Ultimately, we want everyone to have a great experience at the CMA.

How do these programs support the museum’s mission to create meaningful experiences for all visitors?

JM: One of the museum’s goals is to be considered a “must” destination in Northeast Ohio. Family programs support this by continuing the museum’s long tradition of encouraging playfulness in the galleries and offering a space for fun and creativity.

ML: Variety is key. By offering everything from traditional lectures to more experiential programs like make-and-sip nights, we create multiple entry points for visitors with different interests and comfort levels.

In what ways are programs intentionally designed to be welcoming to people of all learning styles and levels of art familiarity?

ML: The museum, and most of our programming, is free, which eliminates many barriers to participation. We set no expectations for visitors’ skill or knowledge levels. Our goal is to meet people where they are and help them connect with the collection. We use diverse learning approaches, including sensory engagement, and encourage trial and error in our activities.

JM: We also design our programs to be open-ended and process based, so visitors never feel pressured to produce something “perfect.” The museum is a space where it’s okay to experiment, make mistakes, and flex creative muscles. Our family programs team excels at curating experiences that invite visitors of all ages to engage in their own way.

When designing programming, what factors do you keep in mind to encourage return visits?

ML: Almost every decision is motivated by encouraging people to come back. Recurring programs such as Lunchtime Lectures or series like Material Matters build familiarity and routine. We are also continually thinking about how to make the museum feel welcoming to those who may not have felt comfortable in traditional museum environments.

JM: Consistency is equally important for families. Word-of-mouth is huge for us. Repeat visitors often bring friends or extended family because they know our programs are reliable, high quality, and regularly scheduled. With that in mind, we are always planning ahead and ensuring variety in our activities, so frequent visitors continue to have fresh experiences.

What types of experiences can families look forward to in the coming year? Are there any themes or new ideas you’re excited about?

JM: We are gearing up for Mother’s Day programs and America’s 250th, preparing to welcome a new class of summer campers, and developing activities inspired by Martin Puryear: Nexus.

ML: Similarly for adult programming, we are shifting our focus toward celebrating the museum’s 110th anniversary and exploring ways to connect the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence to our collection.

What does a successful slate of programming look like to you?

JM: Success goes beyond attendance numbers. It is about creating moments of wonder, when someone views an artwork from a new perspective, makes a meaningful connection, or creates something they’re proud of alongside a loved one. If visitors leave feeling inspired, welcomed, and more connected to art and each other, that’s success.

ML: Success also means reaching new audiences and strengthening the CMA’s role as a community hub. We want the museum to be the first place people think about when deciding how to spend their day.

If you could share one message with current and future program participants, what would it be?

JM: We are just getting started. CMA programming truly has something for everyone. No matter your age or experience, you have the capacity to be creative, find inspiration in the museum, and experience moments of wonder. We hope visitors feel welcomed into playful, meaningful experiences that spark curiosity and belonging.

ML: Just come! See what’s happening and try something new.