Standout Steward Remembering Curt Pederson, ASI’s longtime Curator Curt Pederson was beloved by countless people who encountered and worked with him. He had a unique genius about him, an almost magical quality that was so very endearing. Whether he was hanging an exhibition, or discussing a potential donation to ASI’s collections, or describing the craftmanship embedded within the Turnblad mansion (which he carefully stewarded for nearly three decades), Curt always approached others with professionalism, a warm heart and a gentle spirit…and, more often than not, with a donut in hand. Curt passed away on February 3, 2022, following a heart attack in late January. He devoted much of his professional career to the American Swedish Institute, first as an independent artist in the early 1980s who helped restore many of the decorative ceilings in the Turnblad Mansion, and then as a full-time curator since 1998.
At the time of his death, Curt had been working closely with architects, engineers, and colleagues in planning the comprehensive restoration and revival of the Mansion’s exterior façade and interior spaces. His extensive knowledge of the Mansion coupled with his passion for its stewardship is deeply missed.
Curt was one of the Turnblad Mansion’s most dedicated and talented stewards.
Report to the Community FY2021
9
