For the most part, we use components for multi-part artworks.
Naturally, though, there is at least one exception.

 

We have a multi-part work by Nan Goldin that has 129 individual
photographs.  Each of the photographs is separately titled, with
separate condition notes, dimensions, etc.  However, none of the
individual works should be shown alone, but only collectively as a
group.

 

We opted to make each of the individual works a separate object, but to
mark them as virtual objects.  Only the record for the 129 works is
marked as a non-virtual object.  Each of the virtual objects is linked
to the main record in a child relationship.

 

My reasoning was that it was of more importance that we have a
one-to-one relationship of countable objects in the collection with
non-virtual accessioned objects in the collection.  

 

Is that sort of what you mean?

 

David

 

David Aylsworth 
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 
Registrar for Collections 
telephone:  713-639-7824 
fax:  713-639-7780 

________________________________

From: The Museum System (TMS) Users [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Jeri Moxley
Sent: Thursday, April 24, 2008 3:17 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Component vs. Group Object

 

 

Dear TMS List, 

Please discuss the pros and cons of components vs. group objects for
multi-part artworks (e.g., an installation piece that is comprised of 6
artworks).

Jeri 

 

Jeri L. Moxley 
Manager of Collection and Exhibition Information 
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum 
o: (212) 423-3509 
c: (646) 912-3365 
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