We acquire artwork through individual gifts, museum transfers, and direct purchases. 

All acquisitions are approved by the GVSU Art Museum Collections Committee, with oversight from the Division of Academic Affairs. 

Key Principles & Practices:

• Alignment: must be in support of our vision, values, and mission

Ethical and Legal Compliance: must adhere to all applicable laws, treaties, and international conventions regarding ownership, import, and export of cultural property. 

• Due Diligence: we exercise due diligence in verifying the history and provenance of objects, including examining documents, customs records, and the object itself for signs of illegal activity. 
• Provenance Research: we investigate the history of an object's ownership and any potential issues related to its acquisition, including illegal excavation, theft, or looting. 
• Documentation: we seek documentation of acquisitions, including purchase contracts, insurance documents, and documentation of prior ownership. 
• Collections Management Policy: all acquisitions are in support of our collections management policy that outlines acquisition criteria, decision-making processes, and the roles of relevant staff. 
• Public Trust: we have a duty to acquire, preserve, and promote collections as a contribution to safeguarding natural, cultural, and scientific heritage. 
• Rejection of Illicitly Traded Items: we do not acquire or borrow items if there is any suspicion that they may be illicitly traded. 
• Transparency: we will be transparent about our acquisition policies and practices, and are willing to share information with the public. 
• Collections Stewardship: we are expected to plan strategically and act ethically with respect to collections stewardship matters. 
• Adherence to Standards: Adhering to standards provides a common language that enables museums to self-regulate, demonstrate professionalism, and increase accountability. We follow the standards set forth from the American Alliance of Museums and the International Council of Museums.