Webinar: 12:00p MT
Q&A / Forum: 12:45p MT
WEBINAR:
What happens when the pursuit of ancient artifacts raises serious questions about authenticity, provenance, and the protection of cultural heritage?
Join IFCPP for a fascinating presentation featuring investigative journalist and bestselling author Michael Blanding, whose latest book, The Gospel According to Hobby Lobby, explores the Green family, owners of the Hobby Lobby retail empire, and their efforts to build one of the world's largest private collections of biblical antiquities.
At the center of this story is the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., and the controversies surrounding the acquisition of thousands of ancient artifacts, including objects later identified as looted, stolen, or forged.
Drawing on his extensive investigative research, Blanding will explore the intersection of private collecting, cultural heritage, museum ethics, and the international antiquities trade.
Topics of interest include:
- The Museum of the Bible and the Green family's antiquities collection
- Questions surrounding artifact provenance, authenticity, and acquisition
- Antiquities trafficking, repatriation, and cultural property protection
- Ethical responsibilities and due diligence in museum collecting
- Lessons for museums, collectors, and cultural heritage professionals
This timely discussion offers valuable insights for museum professionals, collections managers, security specialists, and anyone involved in protecting our shared cultural heritage.
ABOUT YOUR PRESENTER: Michael Blanding is an award-winning investigative journalist and author whose work explores history, cultural heritage, corporate accountability, and the fascinating stories behind major institutions.
His books include The Gospel According to Hobby Lobby; The Map Thief, which investigates the theft of rare historical maps from prestigious libraries; and In Shakespeare's Shadow, which explores researcher Dennis McCarthy's intriguing theory about the origins of Shakespeare's plays and the possible influence of Elizabethan writer Sir Thomas North. In The Coke Machine: The Dirty Truth Behind the World's Favorite Soft Drink, Blanding investigates Coca-Cola's global business practices, including environmental concerns, labor rights, and corporate accountability.
Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Blanding sheds light on complex issues involving ethics, accountability, cultural heritage, and institutional responsibility. His investigative work offers valuable perspectives for museum professionals, security specialists, collections managers, and anyone dedicated to protecting our shared cultural heritage.
Learn more about Michael Blanding: https://www.michaelblanding.com/
Watch our interview with webinar presenter Michael Blanding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvjejZFurXU
Q&A / OPEN FORUM:
Following the webinar presentation by world-renowned subject-matter expert, join us for a Q&A and open forum. Ask your presenter direct questions about the topic, and continue with a peer-to-peer discussion about insider threats and related concerns.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: December 2nd, 2026
