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Defense Date

2005

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Art History

First Advisor

Dr. Eric G. Garberson

Abstract

The Wake Forest University Art Collection consists of nearly 1300 works of art of various media dating from the fifteenth century to today that are divided into nine distinct collections. Assessing the current state of the Collection, this thesis project evaluates the art historical significance of the Collection using select museum quality works of art and then proceeds with a discussion of collections management, including the topics of acquisition, accession, and risk management. Environmental conditions in Collection facilities are measured against widely accepted museum standards. Use of the Collection as an educational resource by the University and surrounding community is compromised by a variety of factors, including issues of accessibility and security. General recommendations to improve the current state of the Collection include adapting collections management policies and procedures to standard museum practices and the creation of a permanent museum space and staff.

Comments

Part of Retrospective ETD Collection, restricted to VCU only.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

June 2008

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