A rare Frick selfie during the Frick Collection’s very brief photos-allowed policy this spring (photo courtesy Andrew Brischler’s Instagram feed)
Well, it was nice while it lasted. After revising its policy in April to allow photography inside the permanent galleries, the Frick Collection has once again changed course. Picture taking is now banned in the galleries, as it previously had been for decades. It is still allowed in the Garden Court, a slight consolation for would-be photographers.
The museum offered this comment to Hyperallergic to explain the decision:
After a brief trial allowing photography throughout the permanent collection galleries, it has become apparent we need to limit use of cameras to the Garden Court. The Frick Collection is virtually unique and especially valued for its lack of protective barriers, vitrines, and stanchions around works of fine and decorative art, displayed in a domestic setting. This refinement of our photography policy has been determined necessary to maintain the safety of our exceptional collections.
It appears the unwashed, Instagramming masses are not ready for the Frick — or the Frick isn’t ready for them. Either way, kudos to the lucky visitors who made it during the museum’s brief photo-filled period; those pictures may be worth something someday.
Hurray, let’s hope more museums follow suit.
I can see their point. Unfortunately there really some people who don’t watch what they’re doing and bump into displays while messing with their camera. If they break something it can’t be replaced.
Photography is just one tool in the kit of art thieves. Helps with the logistics.
This is a huge drag