It may be perfectly normal for the inhabitants of the United States of America to see art institutions sponsored, but for Europeans such things are still somewhat of a novelty. Or at least to have one’s name displayed on museum walls, and even elevators and staircases, such as these examples of generosity to be found at New York’s NEW MUSEUM (please click on photo above to see the sponsored stairs). It may be something that becomes more of a common sight around the world, especially as the spendthrift new British government has already made noises that art funding should follow the US model. Patronising the art is indeed one of life’s virtues and is highly recommended. However, it is debatable if one should do such anonymously and as a generosity to the world, or really as a way to see one’s name on the side of an elevator.

















COMMENTS
Adrian:
This has no style and no chic, and has no place in a cultural institute.
It feels like they ‘buy’ their place in these structures through these cheap declarations.
Emma Davis:
To ‘generously’ sponsor art we to need allow time, energy and presence in the museums, galleries, websites and blogs. We participate and donate by observing, looking and sharing art. One example of where it is about the ‘generous giver’ is at Heide Museum of Modern Art (http://www.heide.com.au) in Melbourne, Australia. Two donors who dedicated their lives and homes to the production and presentation of Art.
FRANK:
Adrian, the sanctimonious, how else do you suppose major galleries get funding in austere times?