It seems to me that it would be extremely confusing for the public, who might think that the entire museum collection once belonged to this individual.  That may be what the donor is aiming for.



I used to work at an art center where a donor had named the studio art program within the center, like this:  "The Jane Q Smith School of Art at the XYZ Art Center." So maybe there can be a compromise--maybe the donor can name the exhibit program (e.g., "The Jane Q Smith Exhibits at the ABC Museum") or similar.



Julia Muney Moore

Public Art Administrator

Blackburn Architects, Indianapolis, IN

(317) 875-5500 x219

mobile (317) 460-0596

[log in to unmask] 





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-----Original Message-----

From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Elizabeth DeMaria

Sent: Friday, February 12, 2010 4:49 PM

To: [log in to unmask]

Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Museum Naming Rights



Could anyone direct me to information about the ethics of naming rights within a museum?  A donor has requested to name the general museum collection.  My understanding is that only spaces and positions can be named -- not the general collection.  (The collection, of course, include items from many diverse donors).  However, is naming the collection actually unethical, or just not commonly done?  Any sources or advice you might provide on this situation would be greatly appreciated.



Thank you!



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