Deaccessioning policy

Definition

A deaccessioning policy is a set of guidelines and procedures established by museums or art institutions to govern the process of removing items from their collections. This policy ensures that deaccessioning decisions are made ethically and transparently, considering the institution's mission, the significance of the work, and the implications for stakeholders involved.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A deaccessioning policy should clearly outline the criteria for removing items, such as their condition, relevance to the collection, and potential for public benefit.
2. Ethical considerations play a significant role in deaccessioning; institutions must weigh the impact on donors and the community when deciding to remove artworks.
3. Some institutions may choose to sell deaccessioned items, while others might donate them to other organizations or dispose of them responsibly.
4. The American Alliance of Museums emphasizes that deaccessioning should not be done for financial gain but rather to enhance the collection's overall integrity.
5. A well-defined deaccessioning policy can protect institutions from legal challenges and uphold their reputations by promoting accountability and transparency.

Review Questions

• What are the key components that should be included in a deaccessioning policy to ensure ethical decision-making?
  • A deaccessioning policy should include clear criteria for evaluating items, such as their condition, relevance to the institution's mission, and potential public benefit. It should also outline the procedures for consultation with stakeholders, including staff, board members, and community representatives. Additionally, it must address ethical considerations regarding donor intent and community impact, ensuring that decisions are made transparently and responsibly.
• How can the practice of deaccessioning impact an institution's relationship with its donors and the community?
  • Deaccessioning can significantly affect an institution's relationship with donors and the community by either strengthening or undermining trust. If done transparently with clear communication about the reasons behind specific removals, it can foster confidence in the institution's commitment to its mission. However, if perceived as self-serving or lacking ethical considerations, it may lead to donor resentment and a loss of public support. Institutions must navigate these relationships carefully to maintain goodwill.
• Evaluate how different institutions approach deaccessioning and the implications these approaches have on their operational practices.
  • Different institutions may adopt varying approaches to deaccessioning based on their mission, resources, and stakeholder expectations. Some might prioritize financial gain from sales of deaccessioned works, while others focus on enhancing their collections through responsible disposal or donation. These differing practices have significant implications; for instance, a profit-driven approach may raise ethical concerns and affect public perception negatively. In contrast, a more community-focused strategy can strengthen ties with local stakeholders but may limit funding opportunities. Ultimately, how an institution handles deaccessioning reflects its values and priorities.

Related terms

Provenance:

The history of ownership of a piece of art or an artifact, which can influence decisions about its deaccessioning.

Ethics in Art: The principles that guide the moral responsibilities of artists, collectors, and institutions in the creation, curation, and disposition of art.

Accessioning: The process of formally adding an object to a museum or collection, which is often closely linked to deaccessioning when deciding what to retain or remove.