In terms of archaeological collections, collections-based
research is the _only_ justification for the collection and maintainence
of archaeological materials. Exhibits are fine for fund-raising and
external relations, but without research the objects are meaningless
and should remain in archaeological context.
        Ethnographioc materials are in a similar situation, but the
line between ethnography as an academic discipline and craft as a
contemporary art form is very blurry.
        At our institution (Univeristy of Alaska Museum) there is a distinct
dichotomy between exhibit of materials as art (upstairs) and collections
research and stabilization (downstairs). Us downstairs folks don't get
invited to the wine and cheese parties upstairs.
        Michael A. Lewis
        University of Alaska Museum
        Fairbanks, Alaska