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taking inventory of artwork



Soon I am to go around the campus of our small, private college and take
inventory of all our artwork. I'm told that previous inventories have been
done, but they have been misplaced, so I may be starting from scratch. Since
I have never done anything like this before, I could definitely use some
guidance on the information I should collect. I've done some searching of
the list archives, but haven't found anything on this kind of art inventory.

I want to describe the items accurately but am not an expert. Some pieces
are named and labeled, but many have no identifying information on them. I
would not want to describe a painting as an oil on canvas if it really is an
acrylic. And how to distinguish between an original and a reproduction? What
about posters vs. prints? Would it be better just to describe the subject
and note the physical size of each piece?

Our main goal for this inventory, as I understand it, is to develop a master
list that can be checked periodically so that items won't go missing. It
also will help for insurance purposes.

I would appreciate any suggestions and guidance, not to mention horror
stories and humorous anecdotes. Thanks!

Laurie

Laurie Langland
Archivist
Layne Library, Dakota Wesleyan University
1200 W. University Ave.
Mitchell, SD 57301

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