Do not assume for a moment that your brilliant exhibition concept will carry the day, and that museums will fall all over themselves to be a part of it. Of course, if you are organizing a show for the Museum of Modern Art, the Metropolitan or the National Gallery, you may have the clout to ignore this advice. But those of us who work with smaller institutions must be aware that most museums and many private collectors have to be convinced that they should loan to your show. Schmoozing is another word that comes to mind. In this era of scarce funding, most museums are understaffed and overburdened with requests for loans, access to their collections or just general information.
Loans are time-consuming and labor intensive.
In addition, a museum s collections are its primary assets, and most institutions would just as soon keep them close to home. This is particularly true if the object is on permanent or long-term exhibition in its galleries. No one wants their masterpiece to be overexposed in a poorly conceived or inconsequential loan show, not to mention the potential damage that can be done during a long tour to several venues. So, it is up to you to demonstrate to lenders why your project is important and why they should take the time to be a part of it. Develop a strategy.