10.3 Acquisition strategies and ethical considerations
2 min read•july 24, 2024
Museums acquire objects through various means, from donations to purchases. These methods shape collections but raise ethical concerns. research, , and legal frameworks guide responsible acquisitions.
, the removal of objects from collections, is a complex process. It involves careful decision-making, adherence to ethical standards, and consideration of public trust. Museums must navigate these challenges to maintain their integrity.
Acquisition Methods and Ethical Considerations
Methods of museum object acquisition
Top images from around the web for Methods of museum object acquisition
The “Black Box” of Consumer Behavior | Principles of Marketing View original
Is this image relevant?
Giving Deaccessioned Museum Objects A New Home And Purpose - Active History View original
Is this image relevant?
Donation box at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
The “Black Box” of Consumer Behavior | Principles of Marketing View original
Is this image relevant?
Giving Deaccessioned Museum Objects A New Home And Purpose - Active History View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Methods of museum object acquisition
The “Black Box” of Consumer Behavior | Principles of Marketing View original
Is this image relevant?
Giving Deaccessioned Museum Objects A New Home And Purpose - Active History View original
Is this image relevant?
Donation box at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich | Flickr View original
Is this image relevant?
The “Black Box” of Consumer Behavior | Principles of Marketing View original
Is this image relevant?
Giving Deaccessioned Museum Objects A New Home And Purpose - Active History View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Donations from individuals, corporations, planned giving programs enhance collections without financial burden
- Purchases through auction houses, private dealers, directly from artists expand holdings strategically
- Bequests via wills, estate planning provide long-term collection growth
- Field collections during archaeological digs, scientific expeditions yield new discoveries
- Exchanges between museums facilitate inter-institutional loans, permanent transfers
- Government transfers of seized items, surplus materials augment public collections
Ethics in museum acquisition policies
- Provenance research traces , authenticates objects, ensures
- Cultural sensitivity addresses indigenous artifacts, sacred objects, human remains respectfully
- Conflict of interest policies govern trustee donations, staff collecting practices
- Illicit trade prevention targets looted artifacts (Elgin Marbles), forgeries
- Repatriation issues involve claims from source communities (Native American tribes), international disputes
- Environmental impact considerations restrict acquisitions of endangered species products (ivory), geological specimens
Legal frameworks for museum acquisitions
- (1970) prohibits illicit cultural property transfers, promotes international cooperation
- National laws like Antiquities Acts, export restrictions protect heritage
- ICOM Code of Ethics provides acquisition guidelines, professional standards
- NAGPRA mandates repatriation of Native American cultural items in US
- Cultural property agreements establish bilateral understandings between countries
- Immunity from seizure laws protect loaned objects in international exhibitions (British Museum loans)
Deaccessioning in museum collections
- Formal removal of objects from permanent collections for various reasons
- Motivations include redundancy, poor condition, lack of mission relevance
- Ethical debates center on public trust, donor intent, collection integrity
- Process requires board approval, thorough documentation, transparent decision-making
- Disposal methods: transfer to other institutions, public auction, private sale
- Proceeds often restricted, typically reinvested in collections
- Controversies arise from media scrutiny, stakeholder reactions (Detroit Institute of Arts sale proposal)
- Best practices involve clear policies, long-term planning, adherence to professional guidelines (AAM standards)
Key Terms to Review (18)
Accountability: Accountability refers to the obligation of individuals or organizations to explain, justify, and take responsibility for their actions and decisions. In the context of acquisition strategies and ethical considerations, it emphasizes transparency and integrity in the processes that govern how collections are obtained, managed, and utilized. This concept ensures that museums and cultural institutions are held responsible for their decisions, especially regarding the provenance of objects and the ethical implications of their acquisition practices.
Acquisition by gift: Acquisition by gift refers to the process through which museums and cultural institutions receive artifacts, artworks, or other items voluntarily donated by individuals or organizations. This method of acquisition raises important ethical considerations, including the provenance of the items, the intentions of the donor, and the potential impact on the museum's collection policy and mission.
Acquisition Policy: An acquisition policy is a set of guidelines and principles that museums and similar institutions use to govern the process of acquiring new objects for their collections. This policy ensures that the acquisition process is ethical, transparent, and aligned with the institution's mission, balancing the need for growth in the collection with legal and moral considerations.
Collaboration: Collaboration refers to the process of individuals or organizations working together to achieve a common goal or outcome. This involves sharing resources, knowledge, and skills to enhance effectiveness, often leading to innovative solutions and improved practices. In the context of acquisition strategies and ethical considerations, collaboration becomes crucial for building partnerships that support responsible collection practices and foster inclusive representation of diverse cultures.
Community consultation: Community consultation refers to the process of engaging with community members to gather input, feedback, and insights on decisions that affect their lives or local environment. This approach emphasizes collaboration and communication, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and considered in decision-making, particularly regarding acquisition strategies and ethical considerations within cultural institutions.
Cultural Sensitivity: Cultural sensitivity refers to the awareness and understanding of the differences and similarities between cultures, particularly in the context of respecting and valuing these differences when interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. It plays a crucial role in promoting ethical practices and inclusivity, especially in environments such as museums where artifacts and narratives from various cultures are presented.
David Fleming: David Fleming was a prominent figure in the museum sector, known for his innovative approaches to curation and exhibition design. He emphasized the importance of storytelling within museums, advocating for a more engaging experience that connects visitors emotionally and intellectually with exhibits. His ideas also extend to acquisition strategies, where ethical considerations and the representation of diverse narratives play crucial roles.
Deaccessioning: Deaccessioning refers to the process of formally removing an item from a museum's collection, typically involving the sale, transfer, or destruction of the object. This process is essential for museums to manage their collections effectively and ethically, ensuring that they maintain relevance and comply with their mission. Deaccessioning must be guided by ethical considerations, as it often raises questions about the stewardship of cultural heritage and the rationale behind acquiring and subsequently removing items from collections.
Due Diligence: Due diligence refers to the thorough investigation and assessment of a potential acquisition or transaction, ensuring that all relevant facts and legal considerations are considered. This practice is crucial in determining the legitimacy and ethical implications of acquiring cultural properties, safeguarding against illegitimate ownership and potential legal repercussions. It emphasizes the responsibility of institutions to act ethically and adhere to international standards regarding cultural heritage.
Ethical sourcing: Ethical sourcing refers to the practice of ensuring that the products and materials a company acquires are produced in a responsible and sustainable manner, considering the environmental, social, and economic impacts. This concept emphasizes the importance of transparency in supply chains, fair labor practices, and the minimization of negative effects on communities and ecosystems. The principles of ethical sourcing directly tie into broader discussions about acquisition strategies and the moral responsibilities of institutions when collecting and curating items for their collections.
James Cuno: James Cuno is a prominent American art historian and museum director known for his advocacy of cultural institutions and the importance of museums in the global art landscape. His views often emphasize the need for museums to be places of shared knowledge and cultural dialogue, reflecting broader themes in curation, acquisition, and the ethical responsibilities of institutions that collect and display artifacts.
Legal Title: Legal title refers to the formal ownership of property or assets, which grants the holder certain rights and responsibilities over that property. In acquisition strategies, legal title is crucial as it establishes who has the legal authority to manage, sell, or transfer the asset, thereby raising ethical considerations related to provenance and rightful ownership.
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act: The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) is a federal law enacted in 1990 that aims to protect Native American burial sites and facilitate the repatriation of cultural items, including human remains, artifacts, and sacred objects, to their respective tribes. The act reflects a broader recognition of the rights of Indigenous peoples regarding their cultural heritage and ancestral remains, emphasizing ethical considerations in museum acquisition strategies.
Ownership history: Ownership history refers to the documented record of previous ownership of an object, particularly in the context of art and cultural artifacts. This history is crucial for understanding the provenance of an item, its legal status, and any ethical considerations that may arise regarding acquisition and ownership. By tracing ownership history, museums can address potential issues related to rightful ownership and ensure responsible stewardship of their collections.
Provenance: Provenance refers to the history of ownership and origin of an object, particularly in the context of art and cultural artifacts. Understanding provenance is crucial because it helps determine the authenticity, legal ownership, and ethical considerations surrounding the acquisition and display of items in museums. It also plays a significant role in addressing issues related to cultural heritage and restitution of artifacts taken during colonial times.
Repatriation policy: A repatriation policy is a framework that guides the return of cultural artifacts, human remains, or other items of historical significance to their country of origin or to the communities from which they were taken. This policy addresses ethical considerations surrounding the ownership and provenance of items, emphasizing respect for cultural heritage and the rights of indigenous peoples or nations.
Transparency: Transparency refers to the clarity and openness of processes and decisions, particularly in terms of how organizations acquire, manage, and display cultural artifacts. This concept emphasizes the importance of clear communication and accountability in acquisition strategies and ethical considerations, allowing stakeholders to understand the origins and context of artifacts and ensuring ethical practices in their collection and display.
UNESCO Convention: The UNESCO Convention refers to a series of international agreements aimed at promoting the protection and preservation of cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible. These conventions guide countries in adopting ethical acquisition strategies, ensuring that cultural properties are sourced responsibly and ethically while fostering cooperation between nations to safeguard shared heritage.