List members:

My name is Vanessa Ward, and I am a first year grad student in the Arts and
Administration Masters Program at the University of Oregon.  I am currently
compiling policy statements that address the ethical and economic issues
regarding the organization of exhibits consisting entirely of works from
private collections.  As works of art that are still fundamentally "in the
marketplace," privately held collections displayed in whole or part as
museum exhibitions raise questions concerning the role of museums as
"marketplaces of ideas."

If you could respond to the following survey (offlist please), I would be
greatly appreciative.  It is very short so it should not take very much
time.  Thank you for your time.

1) Does your museum address the issue of the display of works from
privately held collections in its exhibition policy?  If yes, can you
provide me with a copy?

2) If no, is there an unwritten policy?  What is it?

3) If no, why not?

4) When displaying works from private collections, is there a tacit or
written understanding that the work will eventually be a gift to either
your museum or another?

5) Do you, as a museum administrator, think such explicit statements are
necessary?

Once again, thank you for your time.  Your input is greatly appreciated.

Vanessa L. Ward
First Year Graduate
Arts and Administration Program
The University of Oregon

3330 Kinsrow #232
Eugene, OR  97401
541-345-7566
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