Janelle,

 You said:
> As I keep saying, I am all for labels and education within museums.  I
just
> wish people could feel that they can handle art without them once in a
> while.

That is a lovely idea but the fact is, many people do *not* feel comfortable
with abstract art or non-Western art unless they are provided with some
resources for encountering them.  Most of our schools do not provide visual
arts education, and we cannot just throw pictures at people and expect them
to enjoy it without any kind of preparation.  And, as someone else noted,
reading labels is optional.  Best to give patrons the option to read, or
not.

Jill R. Chancey, Curator
Lauren Rogers Museum of Art
Laurel, MS
[log in to unmask]
(phone) 601-649-6374
(fax) 601-649-6379

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