Southampton council weighs up selling paintings
Less significant works could be sold to fund gallery's development
Southampton City Council is considering selling items from its designated art collection. It features paintings by Monet and Picasso, but only less significant items will be sold off.
John Hannides, cabinet member for leisure and culture, said the council might sell pieces to fund the gallery's development.
"We do not intend selling off our nationally acclaimed art collection ad hoc," he added. "The sales would only go ahead with the support of major arts and heritage organisations."
Caitlin Griffiths, head of professional issues at the Museums Association, said: "We are glad Southampton will consult widely, as that is what we encourage museums to do if they are considering disposals."
Simon Stephens
John Hannides, cabinet member for leisure and culture, said the council might sell pieces to fund the gallery's development.
"We do not intend selling off our nationally acclaimed art collection ad hoc," he added. "The sales would only go ahead with the support of major arts and heritage organisations."
Caitlin Griffiths, head of professional issues at the Museums Association, said: "We are glad Southampton will consult widely, as that is what we encourage museums to do if they are considering disposals."
Simon Stephens