The Smithsonian Institution is holding a public forum this week in the wake of a censorship controversy to discuss the role of curators and how to handle sensitive topics.

The forum includes two curators who created the National Portrait Gallery exhibit called "Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire in American Portraiture." It was the first major exhibit to explore gay themes in art history.

A month after the exhibit opened, a video in the show sparked outrage among conservative groups because it depicted ants crawling on a crucifix. Smithsonian Secretary Wayne Clough quickly removed the video. Curators and art groups across the country objected to the Smithsonian's response.

The forum will include the Association of Art Museum Directors and two former chairmen of the National Endowment for the Arts.