| Smithsonian American Art Museum and SOS! Inventory Project Reaches a
Milestone
The Smithsonian American Art Museum has finished entering the 31,833 survey reports gathered through the Save Outdoor Sculpture! program, creating the most comprehensive database of American sculpture available to the public. The data is the result of a survey begun in 1990 by nearly 7,000 volunteers who collected information about the history and condition of their communities’ outdoor sculptures in every state. This online inventory contains a wealth of information about the status of publicly accessible outdoor sculptures across the United States. "Not only does this event mark a milestone in the Save Outdoor Sculpture! project, but it also signifies a landmark in art museum research," said Elizabeth Broun, Margaret and Terry Stent Director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. "We are presenting vital art research to the American public, while also paving the way for other art museums to do the same." The information on sculptures across the United States has been compiled in an online study center at http://americanart.si.edu/study. During April 2000, 14,851 searches were executed on the combined inventories of the American Painting and Sculpture database. "Outdoor sculpture is the most accessible of all our artistic and historic heritage," said Lawrence Reger, president of Heritage Preservation. "For the first time, it has been identified and constitutes a coherent collection. Now, all citizens can appreciate this wonderful legacy and participate in ensuring that it will be available for future generations." SOS! is now focusing on preservation of the sculptures. More than 300 assessment, achievement, and conservation treatment awards have been granted in 43 states and the District of Columbia. The database is a foundation for the next stage of SOS! By enlisting citizens to catalog public works, the program hopes to encourage groups to apply for awards. In turn, these awards will ensure that outdoor sculpture all over the United States are preserved. To make additions or changes to the inventory, call IAS at 202-357-2941 or e-mail artref@nmaa.si.edu. |