Researching and sharing these complex stories is central to SAM’s mission. For objects that have been documented as-or if there is persuasive evidence of-having been taken through violent or inequitable means, SAM is in the process of noting this information in the provenance listing, and/or attempting to consult with the appropriate individuals or communities of origin this is a long-term, ongoing process. Others were created as commissioned works in collaboration with SAM. Some were purchased legally, though the conditions of sale can be seen as inequitable today. Many works in SAM’s collection were collected and exported legally, with permission of local governments and cultural authorities. While most works of art in SAM’s collection were not acquired under inequitable conditions, it is our duty to recognize when they were. SAM has over 25,000 artworks in its permanent collection, acquired since 1933 through donations and purchases. These records are regularly reviewed and updated as new information becomes available. SAM’s research into the histories of works in its collection with unclear provenance is an ongoing process, and available provenance information for these artworks can be accessed through the museum’sĬollections page. SAM is committed to engaging in legal and ethical collection practices, conducting thorough provenance research in all areas of the collection, and being transparent about the results of this research with the public. SAM recognizes that collecting histories can be inextricable from global histories of imperialism, colonialism, and other inequitable structures. SAM adheres to the Code of Ethics as outlined in the Association of Art Museum Directors’ (AAMD) Every two years SAM celebrates new purchases and gifts to the collection and honors the many generous contributions from donors that make the continued growth of SAM's collection possible.Īcquisitions are determined by a number of criteria, including but not limited to: significance of the object authenticity and provenance (history of ownership) relevance to SAM’s collecting strategy and existing holdings condition quality exhibition and publication history storage costs and long-term maintenance. The Board of Trustees holds the authority to approve acquisitions. Upon the recommendation of SAM's Illsley Ball Nordstrom Director and CEO and curatorial staff, all acquisitions are rigorously reviewed by the Committee on Collections and recommended to the Board of Trustees for their review and approval. The museum regularly acquires new works of art for our collections through gifts, purchases, and bequests, pursuant to the terms of SAM’s Collections Management Policy. The growth of SAM’s permanent collections through acquisitions is an essential part of the museum’s activities and mission.
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