I would venture to say that because of the nature of this list we "museum
people" are having a certain reaction to the crowds at blockbuster exhibitions
that is similar to the feelings some people have about those who attend church
only on Christmas Eve. Perhaps we feel that we are more deserving of the
opportunity to see the works without the crowds because we are already devoted
to the museum and the shows that may be less popular. 

I don't mean this in any way to be a negative comment, but I am taking the
risk to express my own initial reaction to the crowds at the recent Picasso
show in Los Angeles. I was frustrated at having to wait in line, and deal with
the visitors who have very little consideration for the people around them,
while trying to see the paintings over people's heads. But then I took a
moment to realize how wonderful it was to see such a variety of people there
to experience and appreciate the art! I stopped myself and remembered all the
discussions in my MA courses about increasing audiences and attracting many
different people - and here it was right in front of me. So - I'm hoping that
I can visit the Van Gogh show during the week, when there may be less people.
And even if I can't experience empty galleries and stand in the middle of the
room to see all the paintings around me, I will appreciate the fact that there
may be a first time museum visitor standing right next to me - and maybe they
will be encouraged to come back.

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