Deep Storage: Collecting, Storing, and Archiving in Art : Book Review

Deep Storage is a mesmerizing book that delves into the enthralling world of museum archives, written by the talented author Ingrid Schaffner. This captivating work explores the relationship between storage, art, and culture, shedding light on the remarkable treasures that often remain unseen by the public eye. Schaffner's detailed descriptions and insightful analysis peel back the layers of these storage spaces, showcasing their significance and their profound impact on our understanding of art.

Throughout the book, readers are taken on a captivating journey through various museum archives, providing them with a glimpse into the intricate systems and processes involved in storing and preserving art. Schaffner's writing style effortlessly blends historical context with personal anecdotes, creating an impressive balance of informative and engaging storytelling. She shares fascinating stories that highlight the challenges faced by museum staff as they navigate the arduous task of storing and managing large art collections.

One of the remarkable aspects of Deep Storage is its exploration of storage as an art form in itself. Schaffner emphasizes that the act of storing art is not simply a pragmatic necessity but an integral part of the artistic process. This perspective adds a unique dimension to the book, prompting readers to contemplate the significance of preservation and its impact on our perception and interpretation of art.

Moreover, Deep Storage takes a critical stance on the power dynamics within the art world, raising thought-provoking questions about the motivations behind choices in display versus those stored away. Schaffner's insightful exploration encourages readers to reflect on the politics of curation and the broader implications it has on our cultural heritage.

In summary, Deep Storage is an insightful and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the hidden world of museum archives. Ingrid Schaffner's expertise and passion for the subject shine through, making this a must-read for art enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the behind-the-scenes of the art world. Through this captivating work, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and importance of art storage.

What are readers saying?

Deep Storage by Ingrid Schaffner has received a range of feedback from readers. The book explores the often overlooked aspect of art storage in the art world. While some reviewers praised Schaffner's extensive research and thorough analysis of art storage practices, others found the book overwhelming and overly focused on technical aspects.

Those who appreciated Deep Storage commended the book for its informative nature, as it shed light on the logistical challenges and preservation efforts faced by museums and collectors. They found value in its comprehensive overview and considered it a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and professionals alike.

However, some readers struggled to connect with the content, finding it too academic and lacking an engaging narrative. They felt the book was lacking in storytelling and instead focused on technical details, which made it difficult to engage with.

Additionally, a few reviewers mentioned that the book seemed outdated, with references and examples that were no longer relevant to the current state of the art world. They believed Deep Storage could have been more relatable to contemporary readers by including more recent case studies and examples.

Some readers also expressed disappointment in the lack of visual aids such as photographs or illustrations. They believed that incorporating visuals would have made the subject matter more accessible and visually engaging, aiding in the understanding of the complex concepts discussed in the book.

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