It is with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of Prof Zhang Wenbin, Honorary member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) on February 20, 2019, in China.
Prof Zhang was Director of Tang’An Donc Ethnic Eco Museum, Director of the State Administration of cultural Heritage and Honorary Director of the Beijing University, School of Archaeology and Museology in China.
Member of ICOM since 2001, Prof Zhang occupied different functions, including President of ICOM China from 2002 to 2008 and Vice-president of the Regional Alliance ASPAC for the Asia-Pacific countries. During his time as Chair of ICOM China, Prof. Zhang was instrumental in reforming the strategies of the Chinese museum sector, to ensure their active and dynamic involvement in ICOM’s activities. He supported and helped more than 15 International Committees increase their presence and become more active with museums in China and Asia Pacific region. In addition, Prof. Zhang closely cooperated with various ICOM bodies to organise the ICOM General Conference in October 2010 in Shanghai, which was ultimately a great success for the organisation.
During the 23rd ICOM General Conference held in Rio de Janeiro in August 2013, Prof. Zhang Wenbin received the title of Honorary member of ICOM for his outstanding contribution to the field of museums and heritage, on a local, regional and international level for more than 25 years, providing recognition for his relentless and remarkable work for the international museum community.
The International Council of Museums conveys to Prof Zhang’s family, Chinese museum friends and colleagues, its deepest condolences.