Friday, April 16, 2010

Every Painting in the Museum of Modern Art

This video is quite amazing.




But what is really amazing is that the photographer was able to photograph inside the museum! They never let your do this in Houston museums. And I understand the reasoning--they don't want people's flashes to harm delicate paintings and drawings, or distract other patrons. (They also probably want you to buy their catalogs, too.)

At first, I assumed the photographer here was snapping photos on the sly (as I have done many, many times). But as you watch the video, that doesn't seem to be the case--he or she captures several other people photographing the pictures! Does MOMA actually let you photograph paintings inside the museum?

3 comments:

  1. I *hate* the photography policies at MFAH. Many museums including HMNS and MOMA allow photography in their permanent collection. MFAH allows it in what feels like three or four rooms. I understand that traveling exhibits are out of their control, but a large part of their permanent collection is off limits. Last summer I went to Chicago and went picture crazy at the Art Institute. I could take pictures EVERYWHERE. It was so wonderful.

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  2. I lived in New York for 11 years and I remember MOMA letting you photograph paintings. I don't remember the MET having that policy but you could get permission to set up an easel and do homage paintings, or drawings. I always found that a little curious. What's more dangerous a flash of light or someone spilling turpentine on a painting?

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  3. I guess the reasoning is that if you are painting, you are some physical distance away from the painting. But if you use a flash, that intense burst of photons actually hits the painting.

    Also, it may be that the Met feels an obligation to future painters to help in their training by making their masterpieces accessible.

    These are just guesses, though.

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