1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

Thomas Jefferson University is at it again. After the spectacle that resulted in the relocation of The Gross Clinic, the university has placed a "FOR SALE" sign over its other two works by Thomas Eakins. It seem like it is open shopping season in Jefferson's archives. The university today announced their intentions by basically saying... "We are not a museum," I guess that means in no other termswe have a buyer. The community of Philadelphia deserves better than a local institution of Jefferson's stature cleaning house of its art and making it available the highest bidder. You would think that after the past fiasco over their last Eakins painting the university would have some type of civic remorse. Well Philadelphians, don't expect any conversion from Thomas Jefferson University in the near future. It seems they have become enamored with the dangling carrot of cash that hangs on their walls. Forget civic pride, forget allegiance to former faculty and staff, and forget tradition. We can make some money and not worry about the art anymore. This author is in a state of stupor, perhaps even hypoglycemic shock over the callused and cavalier attitude Thomas Jefferson University shows to its history and traditions. It is true that they are not a museum; however the university is an institution of higher learning. There is an essential responsibility that is lacking from Jefferson's collective conscience. It is not about art. It is not about their right to sell off their possessions. It is about the ethereal concept of knowledge for all generations, and the obligation such institutions have to foster and preserve knowledge. If Socrates were a staff or faculty member at Jefferson, there would already be a readily available pot of brewing hemlock for his consumption. Most likely it would not only be hermetically sealed, but would be pharmaceutically produced by one of the pharmacology giants. As an institution this liquidation of Eakins artworks ranks right up there with a malady of the bubonic plague. Where will it stop? More precisely, when will it stop? Jefferson University needs to be frank and honest about their intentions towards the fostering and preservation of art in Philadelphia. If you want to have an art sale, be honest and just say so. Don't however hide under the proverbial blanket of "proceeds would establish a permanent fund for scholarships and endowed faculty positions." That line is just like hearing "the check is in the mail." Most likely a clandestine check is already in the mail to Jefferson for the price of two more Eakins paintings. What about tradition and the common good. What about the legacy of medical traditions and quality left by Dr.Rand & Dr. Forbes. Surely their accomplishments as medical professionals are still worth recognition! If any faculty member at Jefferson expects a painting commissioned in their memories to endure for generations, they should stick to a digital photo. Chances are that in 2107 the next generation of Jefferson's directors will be collecting twenty first century portraits to sell off. The art community in Philadelphia, as well as the public at large should not let Jefferson hold them hostage again. Jefferson University needs to understand that Philadelphians are very sensitive about their art and history. As an institution of higher learning and as a Philadelphia institution, Jefferson University has a collective responsibility to the City and the collective art history it contains. There is a serious malignancy growing here in the city of brotherly love. The best recommendation comes from Luke's Gospel, "Physician heal thyself."

Learn more about this author, Hugh McNichol.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Art collections held for ransom?
We want to hear your view. Write now!