Enhanced Preservation and Access for DePauw University's Oversize Works of Art

FAIN: PG-262071-19

DePauw University (Greencastle, IN 46135-1736)
Craig Ray Hadley (Project Director: March 2018 to March 2021)

The purchase of storage furniture to rehouse 24 oversize paintings and works on paper, including works by Indiana artists, former faculty members such as Reid Winsey, and national artists such as Robert Rauschenburg.  The collection is used in both staff and student curated exhibitions, as well as in the classroom setting, to support courses in art and art history, anthropology, Asian studies, chemistry and biochemistry, classical studies, English, religious studies, and women’s studies.  This project would be the second and final phase of a project to rehouse the University’s 2D collection and fits into the University’s larger collections management plans.

DePauw University respectfully requests $6,000 to purchase 12 powder coated art storage racks to support rehousing efforts. These new art storage racks will house approximately 24 oversize paintings and works on paper from the permanent collection, ranging from a late 19th century Hoosier Impressionist painting by Indiana native Walter Hixon Isnogle to a series of paintings and oversize prints by DePauw University faculty and former students. The objects directly support a variety of teaching and research needs at DePauw University, including undergraduate projects, faculty use, and public exhibitions. Per a 2014 Museum Assessment Program site visit, the external reviewer recommended the replacement of substandard wooden painting bins with museum-quality storage furniture. This project is part of a larger collections consolidation project and is included in the board approved 2015-2020 gallery strategic plan.