This was released to 180 museums across the nation.
New York, NY, October 3, 2007 –
In response to Randolph College's decision to sell works of art from its Maier Museum of Art, the Association of Art Museum Directors (AAMD) made the following statement:
The AAMD, an organization representing some 180 leaders of North
America's leading art museums, expresses grave concern about the
proposed sale of paintings owned by the Maier Museum of Art for the
purpose of supporting the college's general operating endowment. The
prohibition against the sale of collection objects for general
operating purposes is a fundamental covenant between museums and
donors. It is a promise that exists across generations, to prevent the
financial challenges of a given time – no matter how pressing or how
valid they may be – from depriving future beneficiaries of such gifts.
The AAMD was deeply disturbed to learn of the removal this week of
important paintings by George Bellows, Edward Hicks and others, for
sale at auction for the purpose of replenishing your college's general
operating endowment. In the Association's judgment, such a sale
violates the fundamental integrity of the Maier Museum of Art, and by
extension, Randolph College.
The AAMD condemns Randolph College's sale of paintings from the Maier
Museum of Art.
###
Association of Art Museum Directors
120 East 56th Street
Suite 520
New York, NY 10022
Tel: 212.754.8084
Fax: 212.754.8087
