When Professor Smit-Howard told us that a librarian is worth his/her weight in gold, I hear her but I didn't really take it into account. After visiting the Historical Society and the Morgan and hearing our tour guides' knowledge and expertise in all of the subjets we discussed, I must say - I was floored. The Historical Society gave me such insight into the past, and what it must have been like to see early productions as well as the great fire of the theater. I have a much greater appreciation than I did before the visit.
The Morgan was so huge, that I got extremely overwhelmed by the books - art - music - and photography collections. It seemed like an endless structure. What I liked most was the combination of old and new integrated together. To have the Morgan buildings that were actually residences... and to see the studies of those brilliant collectors was so... COOL! I also loved the class atrium. It was the perfect relatable structure for a New York City audience. It gave me an understanding of the magnitude of such a place.
When I asked my question about personal collections, I was surprised at the answer I got. I went on a trip to Las Vegas with my family some years ago and Steve Martin was showing his vast collection of contemporary art in the Bellagio, I believe. He had an introdcution recorded for the viewers that basically stated how selfish he felt keeping this priceless art all to himself. I have to agree with him. I feel that private collectors are a bit selfish in their pursuits to own original works of art that should be accessible to all people. What good is a Picasso painting when only a few people get to see it every day? I suppose it is correct that those who are private collectors DO take care of their collectables, but no one could possibly have greater expertise than historians and preservation experts. It just seems wrong to me. Oh well... to each his own, I suppose.
All in all - both visits were truly fascinating.
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Stevie, you're not alone. I feel a little queezy about collectors holding onto rare or priceless pieces--especially when they don't plan to share them or don't take care of them as they should. It's too bad more private collectors don't air their stash in museums where the rest of the world can enjoy it!
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