Gold, Sex, and Death at the Museum

Most visitors to art museums see elaborate special exhibitions and beautifully maintained permanent collections augmented by special events. But like other well-managed productions, what you do not see can make all the difference. This course is an introduction to the plethora of issues that professionals in the museum world face every day. Buildings in need of repair, objects requiring conservation, an art market flooded with works of dubious authenticity, ethical challenges, and audiences with ever-changing needs are some of the issues we will encounter. Specialists, including an architect, a curator, an art dealer, and an exhibit designer will contribute to our discussion. 3 hrs. lect./disc.