“Seconds matter.” That phrase framed our recent webinar, Reinventing Museum Security, where experts from across the field explored how museums can protect collections, support leaner staffing models, and keep the visitor experience welcoming—all at once.
The session combined real-world results from the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA), a first look at Art Sentry Version 9, and insights from Tim Carpenter, CEO of Argus Cultural Property Consultants and former head of the FBI Art Crime Team.
1. Strategic Implementation at MMFA
The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts approached Art Sentry as an operational investment—not just a security tool. With alignment across security, facilities, and IT, the museum installed cameras strategically, prioritizing coverage where it mattered most and pausing certain spaces until optimal mounting solutions were developed.
India Wilson, MMFA’s head of operations, shared how this approach modernized their protection strategy, enabling staff to focus more on engagement than enforcement. Chief of Security Ken Nielsen added that automation helps the team stay alert and reduce fatigue—maintaining coverage with fewer staff while upholding top standards for protection. To learn more about Art Sentry at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, see their article here.
2. Smarter Detection with Art Sentry Version 9
Carrie Heflin, Art Sentry’s regional sales manager, introduced some key features of Art Sentry Version 9, including:
Sentry Intelligence – The centerpiece of Version 9. This purpose-built AI analytic provides more accurate detection, fewer false alarms, and better precision in spaces where inches matter. It’s a true security force multiplier.
Redesigned Dashboard– Our updated dashboard gives teams instant access to trends, “hot objects,” response times, and alarm data. It’s built to make life easier for busy security teams and to give leadership confidence in measurable results.
Data into Action-Museums can see alarm patterns at a glance, tag events for better reporting, and turn everyday activity into meaningful insights. What used to be anecdotal now becomes actionable—helping teams improve efficiency and show results.
3. Why Seconds Matter
Tim Carpenter closed the session with a powerful reminder: cameras alone rarely prevent incidents. Tim shared the benefits that a third-party security expert, such as Argus Cultural Property Consultants, can bring to museums by helping expose weak points in existing security and providing expert guidance in future security upgrades.
He also highlighted the advantages of technology, specifically that real-time alerts can transform potential damage into prevented losses.. “In most cases where artwork or objects are damaged, the difference between having a problem and preventing it is measured in mere seconds,” he said. Technology that detects proximity and alerts staff instantly gives museums that critical edge.
See It in Action
If you would like to view the webinar or experience a one-on-one demonstration of Version 9—or a tailored ROI analysis for your site—reach out to our team.
