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Fogg Art Museum Scrapbook, May 1973-March 1978

ARCH.2003.39, Rendition: 806540

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This image shows a page from a scrapbook or archive, mounted on a light brown, three-hole-punched paper folder. The folder holds three separate newspaper clippings, all dated from March 1974, related to art exhibitions and museum affairs at Harvard University.

Here's a detailed description of each clipping:

  1. Top Left Clipping: “Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits”

    • Author: By Richard W. Edelman.
    • Content: This article discusses a controversial report that recommends changing the focus of the Busch-Reisinger Museum, shifting from its historical emphasis on German art to a greater emphasis on contemporary art. The report, drawn up by visiting committee members, has sparked opposition from the Fine Arts and German Departments, as well as from faculty and graduate students who feel excluded from the decision-making process. The article quotes Lawrence F. Stevens, secretary to the Visiting Committees, and John M. Rosenfield, chairman of the Department of Fine Arts, who argue that altering the museum’s focus would violate the wishes of its original donors. The article notes the report is still preliminary and no final decision has been made. The text is marked with handwritten notes, including “C 1/95 14/17” and a red “C” circled, likely for cataloging or filing purposes.
  2. Top Right Clipping: “Ruth Magurn’s Legacy”

    • Author: Robert Taylor.
    • Date: Dated 3/23/74.
    • Content: This is a short review or notice of an exhibition of 60 prints at the Fogg Museum in Cambridge, running through April 6, 1974. The exhibition is presented as a tribute to Ruth S. Magurn, who is retiring as curator of prints after serving in the department since 1965 and as associate and assistant curator from 1958. The review notes that while landscapes are rare in the collection, notable exceptions like a Claude Lorrain painting reveal a humanist feeling. It also mentions her delight in narrative prints, such as those by the 17th-century artist Abraham Bosse (“The Four Ages of Man”).
  3. Bottom Clipping: “The Calendar”

    • Date: From March 15, 1974, The Gazette.
    • Content: This calendar entry advertises an exhibition titled “Contemporary Photographs IV” at the Fogg Museum. It features the photograph “Untitled, 1973” by Jim Dow, which is the large, black-and-white image in the clipping. The photograph shows a weathered, wooden street sign with the words “JESUS IS COMING SOON” stenciled on it. The entry notes that the exhibition also includes works by Roger Bira, Jonathan Green, and Jane Strother, and continues a series initiated in 1971. It was organized by Assistant Curator of Photographs, Davis Pratt. The clipping itself is marked with a handwritten “3/15/74” in red ink.

Overall Context: The collection of clippings centers on events at Harvard’s Fogg Museum and Busch-Reisinger Museum in early 1974, highlighting debates over museum direction, curator retirements, and contemporary art exhibitions. The presence of handwritten dates suggests this was part of a personal or institutional archive tracking news and events. The central photograph of the “JESUS IS COMING SOON” sign is a compelling visual artifact of contemporary photography being exhibited at the time.

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The image appears to be a scanned document or a collection of newspaper剪报 (剪报 refers to a collection of cuttings or clippings from newspapers) on a piece of cardboard. Here's a breakdown of the content visible in the image:

  1. Top Left Corner: A newspaper clipping titled "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits" by Richard W. Edelman. The article discusses a report that recommends changes in the exhibits of the Busch-Reisinger Museum, which has been met with opposition from the Fine Arts and German Departments. The text provides details about the controversy and the potential ramifications of the changes.

  2. Top Right Corner: A clipping titled "Ruth Magurn's legacy" by Robert Taylor, dated 3/23/74. This article discusses the work and contributions of Ruth Magurn, mentioning her role as the Fogg's Curator of Prints and her legacy at the Fogg Museum.

  3. Bottom Right Corner: A calendar clip from "The Gazette" dated March 15, 1974. The calendar includes a photograph and text describing an exhibit by Jim Dow titled "Jesus Is Coming Soon," which was part of a series called "Contemporary Photographs IV" at the Fogg Museum. The exhibit featured works by Roger Birn, Jonathan Green, and Jane Strahler.

The overall layout suggests these are cuttings from a newspaper or magazine, likely related to art, museum exhibitions, and cultural events from the 1970s.

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This is a scanned image of a page from a scrapbook or collection of clippings related to art and museum exhibits. The page contains three distinct newspaper clippings affixed to a brown background.

  1. Top Left Clipping: This clipping is from "The Crimson" dated March 14, 1974. The headline reads, "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits" by Richard W. Edelman. The article discusses a report that would change the focus of the Busch-Reisinger Museum, which has caused opposition from both the Fine Arts and German Departments. It mentions that the plan would shift the Busch's emphasis to contemporary art from its present survey approach and that there is opposition from faculty and graduate students.

  2. Top Right Clipping: This clipping is dated March 23, 1974, and is titled "Ruth Magurn's legacy" by Robert Taylor. It discusses a choice collection of 60 prints at the Fogg Museum in Cambridge, which testifies to the distinction with which Ruth S. Magurn has served as curator. It mentions that she has been the Fogg's Curator of Prints since 1965 and is retiring in June.

  3. Bottom Clipping: This clipping is from "The Gazette" dated March 15, 1974. The headline is "The Calendar," and it features an image of a sign that reads, "JESUS IS COMING SOON." The text below the image provides information about the photograph, indicating that it is part of an exhibition titled "Contemporary Photographs IV" at the Fogg Museum, organized by Assistant Curator of Photographs Davis Pratt.

The clippings are arranged on a brown background, and there are some handwritten notes and dates on the clippings and the background. The overall theme of the clippings appears to be related to art exhibitions and museum changes.

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The image is a collage of various documents and photographs on a beige background. The documents are arranged in a non-linear fashion, suggesting a thematic or conceptual connection rather than a chronological one. Here's a detailed description of each element:

  1. Top Left Document:

    • Title: "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits"
    • Byline: "By Richard W. Edelman"
    • The text discusses a report suggesting changes to the exhibits at the Busch-Reisinger Museum. It mentions the potential shift from the traditional focus on German art to a more contemporary approach, including the display of prints at the Fogg Museum. The document also touches on the opposition from some faculty members and the potential implications for the museum's direction.
  2. Top Right Document:

    • Title: "Ruth Magurn's legacy"
    • Date: "3/23/74"
    • The text is a tribute to Ruth Magurn, highlighting her contributions to the art world, particularly her work as a curator and her role in preserving and promoting art. It mentions her tenure at the Fogg Museum and her impact on the art community.
  3. Middle Left Document:

    • Title: "The Calendar"
    • Date: "3/15/74"
    • The text is an announcement or editorial from "The Gazette," likely a university or museum publication. It mentions an upcoming exhibition titled "Contemporary Photographs IV," organized by the Assistant Curator of Photographs, Davia Pratt. The exhibition features works by various photographers, including Jim Dow, Roger Firm, Jonathan Green, and Jane Stair.
  4. Middle Right Document:

    • Title: "3/23/74"
    • This appears to be a continuation or a separate note, possibly related to the "Ruth Magurn's legacy" document. It includes a quote or excerpt, possibly from Ruth Magurn herself or a related source.
  5. Bottom Document:

    • Title: "The Calendar"
    • Date: "March 15, 1974"
    • This is another announcement or editorial, likely from the same publication as the previous "The Calendar" document. It provides additional details about the "Contemporary Photographs IV" exhibition, including the artists and the duration of the show.
  6. Photograph:

    • The photograph shows a sign reading "JESUS IS COMING SOON" placed on a road. The image is in black and white, suggesting an older photograph. The sign is positioned on a dirt road, with trees in the background, indicating a rural or semi-rural setting.

Analysis and Description:
The collage presents a mix of textual and visual elements, each contributing to a broader narrative about art, exhibitions, and cultural shifts within a museum or academic setting. The documents discuss changes in museum exhibits, the legacy of a significant curator, and upcoming exhibitions, while the photograph adds a layer of social commentary or reflection on contemporary issues.

The "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits" document suggests a shift in curatorial focus, reflecting broader trends in the art world towards more contemporary and diverse representations. The "Ruth Magurn's legacy" document pays tribute to a key figure in the art community, emphasizing her contributions and influence. The "The Calendar" documents announce an exhibition of contemporary photographs, highlighting the museum's commitment to showcasing modern art.

The photograph of the "JESUS IS COMING SOON" sign adds an intriguing element, possibly reflecting on themes of faith, societal change, or the intersection of art and social issues. Overall, the collage presents a rich tapestry of information and imagery, inviting viewers to consider the evolving landscape of art and culture.

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The image is a collage of newspaper clippings and articles. The first clipping is titled "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits." It discusses a report that suggests changes to the Busch-Reisinger Museum's focus, which has aroused considerable opposition from both the Fine Arts and the Fogg Museum. The report recommends shifting the emphasis from traditional to contemporary art, but some members are upset about the survey approach from the Harvard art department. The second clipping is titled "Ruth Magur's legacy," which talks about a collection of 60 prints at the Fogg Museum, Cambridge, through April 6, 1974. The third clipping is titled "The Calendar," which features a photograph of a sign that says "Jesus is coming soon." The last clipping is an advertisement for a photography exhibition at the Fogg Museum, which includes works by Roger Hien, Jonathan Green, and Jane Stark, among others.

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The image depicts a mounted display board featuring three distinct sections, each containing text and design elements. Here is a detailed description:

Top Section:

  • Title: "Report Recommends Changes"
  • Subtitle: "In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits"
  • Byline: "By RICHARD W. EDELMAN"
  • Content: This section appears to be an article or report discussing a plan to change the focus of the Busch-Reisinger Museum at Harvard. The text mentions a committee's recommendation to shift the museum's emphasis from contemporary art to German art, particularly 17th-century Dutch art. It highlights opposition from faculty and students and notes that no formal decision has been made. The article also references discussions with museum directors and the Board of Overseers.

Middle Section:

  • Title: "Ruth Magurn's Legacy"
  • Subtitle: "ROBERT TAYLOR"
  • Content: This section is a tribute or announcement related to Ruth Magurn, who is described as a curator at the Fogg Museum. It mentions her legacy, her role in the department, and her contributions to the museum. The text includes details about her career, such as her tenure since 1983 and her work with prints. There is also a brief mention of her influence on the department and a reference to her passing.

Bottom Section:

  • Title: "The Calendar"
  • Subtitle: "JESUS IS COMING SOON"
  • Content: This section is a calendar entry or announcement, dated March 15, 1974, and attributed to The Gazette. It includes a bold, stylized text "JESUS IS COMING SOON" in large, prominent lettering. Below this, there is a small, faint image or design that appears to depict a figure, possibly a religious icon or a symbolic representation. The text at the bottom of this section provides additional context, mentioning an exhibition titled "Contemporary Photography IV" organized by Assistant Curator of Photographs Davis Pratt. The exhibition features works by Roger Birn, Jonathan Green, and Jane Strable, and is scheduled to run from April 4, 1974, through April 6, 1974, at the Fogg Museum.

Additional Details:

  • Date Stamps: There are handwritten date stamps on the board:
    • Top Right: "3/23/74" near the "Ruth Magurn's Legacy" section.
    • Bottom Left: "3/15/74" near the "The Calendar" section.
  • Layout: The board is structured with three distinct sections, each separated by white space. The text is typed, and the layout suggests it is part of an archival or exhibition display.
  • Mounting: The board appears to be mounted on a wooden or cardboard backing, likely for display purposes.

Overall Context:

The image seems to be part of an exhibition or archival display, showcasing historical documents or announcements related to the Fogg Museum at Harvard. The content covers a range of topics, including museum policy changes, a tribute to a curator, and an upcoming exhibition announcement. The design and layout suggest it is intended for public viewing, possibly in a museum or gallery setting.

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The image presents a collection of newspaper clippings, each with its own unique content and date. The clippings are arranged on a brown paper background, which appears to be a folder or binder page.

Clipping 1: "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits"

  • Date: March 23, 1974
  • Content: The article discusses a report that recommends changes in the exhibits at the Busch-Reisinger Museum. The report suggests that the museum's focus should shift from contemporary art to more traditional art forms.

Clipping 2: "Ruth Magurn's legacy"

  • Date: March 23, 1974
  • Content: This article is about Ruth Magurn, a curator who has retired from the Fogg Museum. The article highlights her contributions to the museum and her legacy in the art world.

Clipping 3: "The Calendar"

  • Date: March 15, 1974
  • Content: This clipping appears to be a calendar page from a newspaper or magazine. It lists various events and exhibitions happening in the art world, including a show at the Fogg Museum featuring works by Roger Bier, Joan Green, and Jane Steinkler.

Overall, the image provides a glimpse into the art world of the 1970s, highlighting the changes and developments that were taking place in museums and galleries during that time.

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The image shows a page from an old newspaper or magazine, with the title "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits" at the top.

  • The page is yellowed and has a hole punched in the left margin, indicating that it was once part of a binder or scrapbook.
  • The article discusses changes to the exhibits at the Busch-Reisinger Museum, which is part of Harvard University.
  • The article mentions that the museum's director, Daniel J. Robbins, will be leaving his position and that there are plans to shift the museum's emphasis to contemporary art.
  • The article also mentions that the museum's faculty and graduate students are upset about the exclusion of their voices from the deliberations on the future direction of the museum.
  • The article includes a quote from John M. Rosenfield, chairman of the Department of Fine Arts, who says that "Nothing bans the Busch from specializing, but to diminish the German emphasis violates the wishes of the donors who wanted a Germanic museum."
  • The article also includes a photo of a sign that reads "Jesus is Coming Soon" with the caption "United, 1977 by Jim Dine is on display at the Fogg Museum through April 4, along with works by Roger Biss, Jonathan Green, and Jane Stabile in 'Contemporary Photographs IV.' The exhibition continues a series inaugurated in 1971, Organized by Assistant Curator of Photographs Davis Pratt, the show includes forty photographs by the four New England photographers."
  • The page also includes a clipping from another article titled "Ruth Magurn's Legacy" which mentions that Ruth S. Magurn has served as curator at the Fogg Museum since 1968 and has been the Curator of Prints since 1983.
  • The page also includes a clipping from another article titled "The Calendar" which mentions that the exhibition "United, 1977 by Jim Dine is on display at the Fogg Museum through April 4, along with works by Roger Biss, Jonathan Green, and Jane Stabile in 'Contemporary Photographs IV.' The exhibition continues a series inaugurated in 1971, Organized by Assistant Curator of Photographs Davis Pratt, the show includes forty photographs by the four New England photographers."

Overall, the image provides insight into the changes and developments at the Busch-Reisinger Museum in the 1970s, including the shift towards contemporary art and the departure of the museum's director.

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The image presents a brown folder containing three newspaper clippings, each with a distinct article and date.

  • The top-left clipping is titled "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits" and is dated March 23, 1974.
    • The article discusses a report recommending changes to the Busch-Reisinger Museum's exhibits.
    • The report was drawn up by two members of the Overseers visiting committee to the art museums with the directors of the Busch and the Fogg.
    • The report suggests that the Busch-Reisinger Museum should shift its focus from contemporary art to a more diverse range of art.
    • The article also mentions that the report has been met with opposition from some faculty members who feel that their educational opportunities may be limited if the Busch concentrates on contemporary art.
  • The top-right clipping is titled "Ruth Magurn's legacy" and is also dated March 23, 1974.
    • The article discusses the legacy of Ruth Magurn, a curator at the Fogg Museum.
    • Magurn has been the curator of prints since 1963, after having been in the department as assistant curator from 1938.
    • The article highlights Magurn's expertise in prints and her ability to reveal the artist's cooking light from the picture.
    • The article also mentions that Magurn retires this June.
  • The bottom clipping is titled "The Calendar" and is dated March 15, 1974.
    • The article features a black-and-white photograph of a sign that reads "JESUS IS COMING SOON."
    • The photograph is accompanied by a caption that states that the image is part of an exhibition at the Fogg Museum.
    • The exhibition, titled "Contemporary Photographs IV," features works by four New England photographers.

In summary, the image presents three newspaper clippings from 1974, each discussing a different topic related to art and museums. The clippings provide insight into the discussions and events surrounding the Busch-Reisinger Museum and the Fogg Museum during that time period.

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The image presents a scanned or photographed page from a binder, featuring a collection of newspaper clippings and handwritten notes. The page is divided into sections, each containing various items.

  • Newspaper Clipping 1: "Report Recommends Changes In Busch-Reisinger Exhibits"
    • This clipping appears to be from a newspaper article discussing changes in exhibits at the Busch-Reisinger Museum.
    • The article mentions a report drawn up by two members of the Overseers visiting committee to the art museums with the directors of the Busch and the Fogg.
    • The report suggests alternatives to be discussed and has been released to committee members and concerned faculty members.
    • Much of the opposition to the changes has come from people who feel that their educational opportunities may be trimmed if the Busch concentrates on contemporary art.
    • The departments' chairmen have cited possible conflicts between the original stipulations of the donors to the Busch and some of the other options in the report.
    • Another suggestion is to make the Busch the repository for all of Harvard's 17th century Dutch art.
  • Handwritten Note: "3/23/74"
    • A handwritten note with the date "3/23/74" is visible on the top-right corner of the page.
  • Newspaper Clipping 2: "Ruth Magurn's legacy"
    • This clipping is from an article titled "Ruth Magurn's legacy" by Robert Taylor.
    • The article discusses Ruth S. Magurn's collection of 60 prints at the Fogg Museum, Cambridge, which testifies to the distinction with which she served as curator.
    • Miss Magurn has been the Fogg's Curator of Prints since 1965, after having been in the department as associate and assistant curator from 1958.
  • Handwritten Note: "3/15/74"
    • A handwritten note with the date "3/15/74" is visible on the bottom-right corner of the page.
  • Newspaper Clipping 3: "The Calendar"
    • This clipping features a photograph of a sign that reads "JESUS IS COMING SOON."
    • The article discusses an exhibition at the Fogg Museum through April 4, along with works by Roger Ballen, James Goode, and Jane Stamm in "Contemporary Photographs IV."

In summary, the image showcases a collection of newspaper clippings and handwritten notes related to art exhibitions and museum collections, including discussions on changes in exhibits, legacies of curators, and upcoming exhibitions.