Government Art Collection
The Manitoba Government Art Collection was formally established in 1970, though its early roots are in 18th and 19th century portraits of public figures and royalty, by some of the most respected artists of the day. There are currently more than 3,500 pieces of art in the collection, in 96 buildings, in seven cities and towns across the province; currently with an estimated value of approximately $3.8M. The collection highlights the work of Manitoba artists with a view to diversity of artist, media and subject matter.
Department Responsibilities
The department is responsible for maintaining the art collection, data base, client consultation and site selection, loan agreements, ongoing conservation, art audits, procedural guidelines and coordinating annual art acquisitions. Works of art come into the collection in a variety of ways including by purchase (from artists and commercial galleries), donation, gift to the government and commission. All artwork requires approval by the Arts Advisory Committee.
Donations to the Government Art Collection
Donations of artwork for inclusion into the Government Art Collection are accepted with approval. Private citizens and organizations proposing a piece of art for consideration must supply a current appraisal and documentation of the artwork to the Visual Art Consultant.
A recommendation by the Art Advisory Committee for inclusion of the artwork into the collection will be made after considering the following:
- Technical and artistic quality of the highest degree, including originality, uniqueness and significance;
- Provenance;
- Authenticity;
- Relationship to the people, places or history of the province (artists who are or were Manitoba residents receiving priority);
- Suitability for exhibition in public spaces;
- Condition of the artwork;
- Ease of maintenance and conservation; and
- Relevance to the content and curatorial goals of the collection.
Contact Us
For more information, please contact:
Visual Arts Consultant
Tel: (204) 945-5515
Cell: (204) 430-9066
Email: mbart@gov.mb.ca
