Permanent Collection
While Mesa Contemporary Arts primarily displays artwork that is on loan, the museum is also interested in expanding its permanent collection. Through the generosity of various artists and donors, Mesa Contemporary Arts' collection continues to mature and consists of over 250 objects. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive with regards to our collection:
What does Mesa Contemporary Arts collect?
Mesa Contemporary Arts collects, exhibits and cares for contemporary works of traditional media and works on paper. This also includes craft, which is comprised of ceramics, fibers, basketry, metals, wood, glass, jewelry, papermaking and book arts.
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What is an acquisition?Acquisition is a term used to describe new gifts and purchases that become part of the museum's permanent collection, when the title of an object is transferred and the museum becomes the owner. Accessioning is the formal process used to accept and record an object as a permanent collection work.
How does a museum decide what pieces become part of the permanent collection?Like most museums, Mesa Contemporary Arts has an Acquisitions Committee comprised of staff and other professionals in the art field. For an artwork to be accessioned into the permanent collection, the work must meet the following requirements:
• Relevant to the museum's Mission
How does a museum care for the permanent collection?When a museum accepts a piece, the museum becomes responsible for the proper storage, maintenance, conservation, and documentation of that object. The museum also makes the work available for the benefit of the public. This obligation means that even a gift is not free. Each acquisition places demands on museum resources and requires climate controlled storage and possible conservation in the future. |
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