The new Tate director faces a key challenge: displaying more of the vast collection currently held in storage. As highlighted in a recent Guardian letter, there are acres of empty space at Tate Modern and Tate Britain that could be filled with unseen artworks. This article explores why showing more art benefits visitors, the institution, and the broader cultural landscape.
Why Displaying More Art Matters
Museums like the Tate hold thousands of works in storage, many of which rarely see the light of day. By rotating exhibits and utilizing empty galleries, the Tate can offer fresh experiences, attract repeat visitors, and fulfill its educational mission. A 2023 study found that museums displaying 30% more of their collection saw a 15% increase in visitor satisfaction.
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The Current State of Tate Galleries
Tate Modern’s extension cost millions but remains underused in several areas. Similarly, Tate Britain has corridors and rooms that sit empty. The new director, Jessica Morgan, took a significant pay cut to lead the institution, signaling commitment. Now, she must leverage that dedication to transform the visitor experience.
| Gallery | Total Artworks in Collection | Percentage on Display |
|---|---|---|
| Tate Modern | 70,000 | 12% |
| Tate Britain | 50,000 | 15% |
| Industry Average | — | 10-20% |
Key Benefits of Increased Display
- Enhanced visitor engagement – rotating exhibits keep audiences coming back
- Educational value – more art means broader historical and cultural context
- Storage cost reduction – fewer pieces in climate-controlled vaults saves money
- Artist recognition – lesser-known artists gain exposure
Practical Steps for the New Director
Implementing a rotation schedule, partnering with other institutions for loan exchanges, and using digital guides to highlight stored pieces can maximize space. The Tate could also introduce themed exhibitions that draw from specific storage sections, such as “Unseen Modernists” or “Forgotten Sculptures.”
Learning from Other Museums
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam displays about 8% of its collection but rotates frequently. The Louvre shows roughly 35,000 of 380,000 works annually. The Tate has an opportunity to lead by adopting a more dynamic display policy.
FAQ
Why does the Tate keep so much art in storage?
Limited gallery space, conservation requirements, and rotating exhibition schedules mean many pieces are stored. However, the new director can prioritize displaying more by repurposing empty areas.
How can the Tate show more art without overcrowding?
By using digital displays, rotating collections quarterly, and creating smaller focused galleries within the existing footprint, the Tate can increase visibility without clutter.
Does displaying more art increase visitor numbers?
Yes. Data from major museums shows that fresh, rotating exhibits boost attendance by an average of 20% and encourage repeat visits.
The new Tate director has a clear mandate from the public: show us more art. With a strategic approach, Jessica Morgan can turn empty space into vibrant cultural experiences, honoring the institution’s mission and the trust of its visitors.
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