Expert: DJ Murphy - 7/29/2001

Question
Hello:
I am working with an established artist(painter) who has never promoted himself.  He was the founder of the Hartford Art School (formerly housed at the Wadworth Athenum in Hartford, Connecticut) and is now 93, still painting and exhibiting.  We recently organized a one-man show of over 50 of his works, mostly from 1998-2001 oil on canvas, with one or two from each decade since the 40's. He was also the painter of four large murals sponsored by the US Treasury Dept in the 1930s(not to be confused with the WPA project) and competed for sponsorship with the likes of Milton Avery. I believe that it is now time to attempt to place works of his in museums, even local ones.  Do you have advice or experience in approaching museums about adding works of living artists to their collections? Thank you for your time. I too am an Allexperts free-advicegiver, and I realize how time-consuming it can be.
Lindsay Hawk

Answer
Hello Lindsay,

First congratulations on working with such an artist with such an outstanding career...and for taking interest in promoting his works!

I wish I had an easy answer for you...but since all museums have a different sets of rules and interests on their collections [often representing the board of directors or Trustees inclinations...as well as the chief professional officer of the museum] it is difficult to suggest a "one approach fits all" strategy.

You could take an ad out in a few magazines directed at museums or museum directors.  I can't suggest the names of any off hand [Art Calendar] might be one..since it goes to a lot of art related people.  But your local librarian could be helpful on the names of publications.  Try a classified ad on what you seek for your artist.  Also...don't be shy about calling a few well placed people in the museum arena.... ask for their advice...also...perhaps a newspaper reporter in your area might take an interest..since the artist is 93 years young..and still going at it....and this reporter might make it a wire story and catch the attention of some museum people.

That's about all the advice I can offer....I hope some of it works for you.

best wishes,
dj murphy