DESCRIPTION: Students choose a work from a special exhibition to be accessioned into the Walker's collection.

OBJECTIVES: Students will be introduced to how the Walker Art Center makes the choices about what to exhibit and who makes these choices.

PROCEDURE: Lots of times the Walker get works for its permanent collection from special exhibitions. If we were going to choose one work from this exhibition, which one should it be. Let's split up into groups of 4. Each of you represent a group of curators and will make a presentation to a benefactor, me, as to why I should purchase your choice for the collection. Therefore you will need to come up with some strong points as to why, in you opinion, the work of art would make a good addition to the Walker's body of contemporary art. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers.

Go find a work of art in this gallery that you think best represents the kind of work shown at the Walker Art Center and is the best work in the exhibitions. Write down the key points as to why the Walker Art Center should buy this particular work of art. Think about why the work of art would be important for the museum and for the community. How does it fit into our existing collection? In addition, you need to think about the larger ramifications of your choice. Is this artwork going to cause some controversy? If it is a controversial work of art, is that going to affect our decision? If we decide to go ahead and choose a controversial piece, how are we going to respond to the criticism that may lie ahead?

(After 10 minutes or so regroup). Now I would like each of you to present your artwork and your reasons, the rest of you will act as the board of directors. Listen carefully to the student arguments and feel free to ask them questions. After every one has presented their work of art we will all take a vote on the best choice for the museum. (Discuss the choice selected.)

MINNESOTA GRADUATION STANDARDS:
(1) Read, View, Listen
(2) Write and Speak
(3) Literature and the Arts

Age level: Grade 9 and up.
Artworks used: Students choose the work from a special exhibition.
Props needed: Paper and pencils.
Related to Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: Yes
Notes: Save for the end of the tour.


© 1998 WALKER ART CENTER