2008 Woodie Awards
Barnes Foundation should remain in Merion to preserve its quirky charm
Lauren Davis '08 and William Galusha '08
Issue date: 10/10/07 Section: Opinion
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Plans are quickly developing for our eccentrically cultured neighbor to move closer to its artsy neighbors on the Parkway. The Barnes Foundation, currently situated in Lower Merion Township, is tucked away in the quiet suburbs of Philadelphia, making a visit to the Barnes a very personal experience.
The location in Merion, isolated from the main cultural attractions of the Parkway, was ideal for Dr. Albert Barnes' unique collection. Barnes, a man who made his fortune in pharmaceuticals, had a particular dislike for the traditional cultural establishment in Philadelphia. He disregarded art history and cultural elitism, with the mission of making his collection accessible to the masses; however in its current location, the gallery has become an elitist domain.
Upon entering the building nestled beside a sprawling arboretum, visitors are instantly aware of the uniqueness of the collection. Burlap-covered walls are adorned with masterpieces presented exactly as Barnes had hoped. He chose to place the paintings based on their appearance and color, rather than on their histories. The result is an often puzzling but always rewarding experience. This collection is unlike any other in its unique disregard for traditional museum presentation and style.
The proposed and likely move to the site of the juvenile prison on the Parkway in Center City is an opportunity for the Foundation's collection to be more accessible to the public. In addition, the Foundation and city of Philadelphia stand to gain financially.
These developments should not distract from the fact that not only does the move go directly against Barnes' wishes, but will also effectively ruin the unique appeal of his collection.
Lower Merion may not be the "ideal" location for a gallery with an art collection valued over $2 billion; however, it is a thriving cultural center apart from its location. Located in the backyard of our University, it isn't as if the location is especially rural.
The location in Merion, isolated from the main cultural attractions of the Parkway, was ideal for Dr. Albert Barnes' unique collection. Barnes, a man who made his fortune in pharmaceuticals, had a particular dislike for the traditional cultural establishment in Philadelphia. He disregarded art history and cultural elitism, with the mission of making his collection accessible to the masses; however in its current location, the gallery has become an elitist domain.
Upon entering the building nestled beside a sprawling arboretum, visitors are instantly aware of the uniqueness of the collection. Burlap-covered walls are adorned with masterpieces presented exactly as Barnes had hoped. He chose to place the paintings based on their appearance and color, rather than on their histories. The result is an often puzzling but always rewarding experience. This collection is unlike any other in its unique disregard for traditional museum presentation and style.
The proposed and likely move to the site of the juvenile prison on the Parkway in Center City is an opportunity for the Foundation's collection to be more accessible to the public. In addition, the Foundation and city of Philadelphia stand to gain financially.
These developments should not distract from the fact that not only does the move go directly against Barnes' wishes, but will also effectively ruin the unique appeal of his collection.
Lower Merion may not be the "ideal" location for a gallery with an art collection valued over $2 billion; however, it is a thriving cultural center apart from its location. Located in the backyard of our University, it isn't as if the location is especially rural.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Beverly Greene
posted 10/11/07 @ 10:28 AM EST
Your article clearly describes the situation with the Barnes collection. It is important to also note that the move is financially unnecessary since Lower Merion Township has agreed to float a bond which would provide the Foundation with an excess of $1 million a year and cost taxpayers NOTHING. (Continued…)
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