Who decides what art gets into museums?

There is no one single answer to the question of who decides what art gets into museums. The process of selecting and acquiring artwork for museums is complex and involves a variety of factors, including the museum's mission and goals, the expertise and preferences of the museum's curators and staff, and the availability and cost of the artworks in question.

In some cases, the decision of which artworks to acquire may be made by a single individual, such as the museum director or chief curator. In other cases, a committee of curators and other experts may be involved in the decision-making process. The specific criteria used to evaluate artworks for acquisition may vary from museum to museum, but some common factors include the artistic quality of the work, its historical or cultural significance, and its potential to engage and educate the museum's visitors.

In addition to the museum's own curators and staff, outside experts may also be consulted in the process of selecting artworks for acquisition. These experts might include art historians, conservators, and artists. The museum may also seek input from its board of trustees or other advisory committees.

Ultimately, the decision of what art gets into museums is a subjective one that is based on a variety of factors and considerations. There is no single formula for success, but museums that have a clear and well-articulated mission and a knowledgeable and experienced staff are more likely to be successful in acquiring high-quality artworks that engage and educate their visitors.

Here are some additional factors that may influence the decision of what art gets into museums:

* The museum's budget: The cost of acquiring artwork is a major factor that museums must consider when making acquisition decisions.

* The museum's collection policy: Some museums have specific policies that govern the types of artworks that they collect. For example, a museum that focuses on American art may not be interested in acquiring a painting by a European artist.

* The museum's audience: The museum's curators must also consider the interests of their visitors when making acquisition decisions. For example, a museum that attracts a lot of families with children may want to acquire artworks that are appealing to children.

* The museum's location: The location of a museum can also affect the types of artworks that it collects. For example, a museum in a rural area may be more interested in acquiring artworks that reflect the local culture and history.

The process of selecting and acquiring artwork for museums is an ongoing and evolving one. As the museum world changes, so too do the criteria for selecting artworks. Museums are constantly striving to find new and innovative ways to engage and educate their visitors, and the art they collect is a key part of that process.