The Barnes Collection

In the Introduction into Museums course we watched the movie, The Art of the Steal. The movie took the viewer through a timeline of the Barnes art collection. Albert Barnes collected art from across the world and showcased in his house in Lower Merion, Pennsylvania.  He was delighted with the works of art that he started a private art school. He felt that students should be able to have the closest view possible when studying, so he did not block them off. Students were able to get a personal view of the art works as the instructor spoke about brush strokes.  In his will, Barnes made explicit instructions that the art was to remain at the facility in Lower Merion. When he passed, his executor made sure the collection did not move, but this would not be the case when she passed away. The Pennsylvanian government got involved and reversed the stipulations that Barnes placed in his will.

This proves that even though one makes provisions for what to do with their belonging when they die, someone can always come in and twist it to their side. Museum and archival facilities must honor the wishes left in the will.  Is this not what wills are for: to protect and distribute our belongings after we are not of this world? If we do not protect these provisions, then why have a will at all.