ABSTRACT
Decorative Arts In Canadian Public Art Museums
Laurel M. Putt
1990
The meanings of the term "decorative arts" and
other related terms are examined from both a historical and a contemporary viewpoint. The
problem of establishing a common definition is discussed. The difficulties that ensue are
examined in relation to the work undertaken by the Canadian Heritage Information Network
(CHIN). A brief history of applied, decorative arts collections in European and American
museums is presented. Activities related to the decorative arts in these museums during
the twentieth century are examined and compared to those in Canadian museums.
A general history is provided of decorative arts
collecting in fifteen Canadian art museums, which are the primary subjects of this study.
The art museums are discussed in conjunction with other types of museums and grouped
according to geographical location. Based on information from the CHIN database, a
questionnaire, and hundreds of newsletters, bulletins, and annual reports, a general
overview of each museum's collection is presented. A report is made about exhibitions and
other educational activities, such as lectures and films, which are related to decorative
arts. Comment is also made on recently established museums specializing in
twentieth-century decorative arts.
Finally, a conclusion is reached that there are few
significant decorative arts collections in Canadian public art museums. Almost all of
these collections are small, primarily historical, and only a few emphasize Canadian
content. Some were shaped by competing interests of nearby museums. Most evolved as a
result of donations rather than specific collections policies. Art societies, volunteer
organizations, and patrons contributed much to encourage the establishment of decorative
arts collections in art museums.
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