Fine Arts

The Power of Objects: Collecting vs Clutter vs Hoarding

Monday, November 28    
8:00 PM

“Collectors see their collections as extensions of themselves, and suffer as acutely as any declutter-resistant hoarder if these are lost or destroyed. Objects serve as means of comfort, even repairers of damaged selves. Collecting, however, is considered respectable behavior, while hoarding resides in the shadows of pathology.” - Russell Belk as quoted in Barry Yourgrau’s MESS.

We are pleased to present a free-wheeling discussion between Fine Arts committee  chair Nicholas Lowry and Barry Yourgrau, author of MESS: One Man’s Struggle to Clean Up His House and His Act.
   These two experts and seasoned collectors will explore the pleasures and pitfalls of collecting as well as share their personal adventures and ordeals when confronted with the “power of objects.” Historical footnotes and observations on famous personalities who were passionate collectors will add special insights (and humor) into the universal need to accumulate, possess and find delight in things.