CAM’s Teen Museum Studies (TMS) is a summer-intensive internship that guides high school-aged participants through the process of selecting a St. Louis-based artist and presenting an exhibition of their work. TMS interns not only receive direct exposure to museum careers, collaboration, and critical thinking skills, but also the chance to work closely with a practicing artist. The 2025 TMS cohort selected Janie Stamm to develop an exhibition that centers on preserving queer and natural history in the face of climate change. The resulting exhibition, Janie Stamm: Mermaid’s Purse, will be on view in CAM’s Education Galleries during our spring/summer 2026 season. 

Stamm’s practice incorporates embroidery and natural, found objects such as shells, sea sponges or undersea plants. Her work is deeply inspired by her connection to the queer culture, the ecology of her hometown in Florida, and the childhood memories that reside within its landscape. Her work resonated with the 2025 TMS cohort for its potential for profound and emotional impact, recognizing its ability to encourage viewers to critically examine crucial contemporary topics such as rising sea levels, queer spaces, and the ways their interwoven histories are impacted by climate change. 

Janie Stamm: Mermaid’s Purse is organized for the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis by 2025 Teen Museum Studies cohort: Tanshire Anderson, Aayushi Bore, Bex Der, Norah Goetz, Amani Hindmon, Aleah Ingram, Kamille Jefferson, Finn Kanak, YAnne McCray-Nettle, Jaclyn Morton and Jules Sawabini with support from Brandon Barr, Teen and Adult Programs Manager.