This blockbuster conversation is evolving into something quite intriguing!
Personally, I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly.
Not a huge fan of impressionism (I prefer post-impressionism), I attended
the Monet Series Paintings show (1990). It literally moved me to tears. It
was so beautiful. Guests entered in small groups, new groups being let in
after the previous group had exited, leaving plenty of room to experience
these magnificent works, joined together for the first time since their
creation.
In the late 80's, I attended the RAMESES exhibition. No one got close enough
to anything to read the information or examine artifacts. It was an
attractive show, but the educational value was diminished by the crowds.
A blockbuster's success or failure can hinge on the host institution's
ability to MANAGE well. Is is better for 30,000 people to experience the
exhibition fully or for 100,000 to be shoved through, meat packer-style? Is
your goal artistic appreciation, mass media attention or mass attendance?
Clarity and planning at the outset are tremendous aids in preventing griping
later on.
Robin Le Van

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of Monifa Theresa Christian
Sent: Thursday, January 14, 1999 9:42 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Blockbuster discussion


I agree with Rax wholeheartedly!

      "That has been my general take on blockbuster shows ever since.
They offer
the public a superficial experience and the opportunity to buy souvenirs
and tell their friends that they've been to a trendy popular event. For
the
museum administration, they draw crowds, make money and attract
benefactors. Of course, the fact that blockbuster shows are also a pain
for
the staff and take time away from the daily operations is irrelevant in
the
context of the museum as a corporation."


I'm from Washington, DC and the museums of art are virtually empty in
comparison to the history and technological museums until...........the
opening of a blockbuster!
In the 1980's I waited in a line for 8 hours (!) to see the Matisse
exhibit.  Geesh, it was hardly worth it!  I was so tired and cranky that
I couldn't enjoy the overcrowded show or  'experience' the works.

Ever since then, I pick and choose.  I saw the Vermeer show but there was
no way on earth that I would go any where near the recent Van Gogh
exhibit!  What a shame!

Monifa

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