I tend to disagree with the idea of introducing works of art into the
commercial arena.  Flooding the market with reproductions of a particular
work of art would in my mind 'dilute' the value of that work.  It becomes a
common item, and people may no longer desire to view the original.  Why go
to a museum to see it when you can look at a representation of the same thing
hanging on your wall?  The impression that the work may have had on people
is different now that anyone can get a copy of it, and I think it diminishes
the value of the work in general.

Brian Decker
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On Tue, 16 Apr 1996, J. Golden wrote:

>         I am interested to know if anyone has any strong opinions
> regarding the reproduction of images in a museum's collection, either by
> the museum itself or by other companies, for commercial use--for example,
> posters, postcards, coffee mugs, or whatnot.  Specifically, I'm
> interested in knowing whether anyone feels that widespread reproductions
> have any impact on the artistic integrity of the original object.  Any
> related opinions are also welcome.
>
>         Stephanie Coon
>         University of Iowa Purchasing Department
>         [log in to unmask]
>