Collections

 According to a study by Russell Belk in the Western world approximately a third of the population admit to having a collection of some kind (Belk1988; Chapter 2). Many theorists have developed different opinions on why we collect and the effect it has on us. Stewart suggests it is a 'strategy of desire' an attempt to lessen the gap between expression and experience (Stewart 1984:139-169) and Clifford says that collecting has long been the strategy for the deployment of a possessive self, culture and authenticity (1986:232). We will look in depth  at the  art of collecting and discuss our findings.



We are always being told that we live in a disposable age with no attachment to things, but the art of collecting  dispels that myth. The more obsolete something becomes often the more desirable it is thought of now. Fashion does not dictate trends to the same extent when it comes to collecting as it tends to be a very personal endeavour. It can be a passionate form of consumption especially when specific objects are sought but the value of the artifacts can often only be determined by the individuals desire for it rather than a purely monetary value. As a result most people feel very bonded to their collection. People often purchases items they can neither afford or need, and then they will often use or display them in ways they were not intended. Often others view collecting as a totally bizarre past-time, especially if they  can see no intrinsic value in the goods, but this is what makes collections so individual. For many you can not put a price on nostalgia or memory.

Collection  as defined in 1932 by Durost:

'If the predominant value of an object or idea for the person possessing it is intrinsic, ie., if it is valued primarily for use, or purpose, or aesthetically pleasing quality, or other value  inherent in the object or accruing to it by whatever circumstances of custom, training or habit, it is not a collection. If the predominant value is representational, ie., if the said object or idea or objects or ideas, such as being one of a series, part of a whole, a specimen of a class, then it is the subject of a collection.'

This definition may have been very well in its time but  ideas of seriality and intention do not capture the true essence of human emotion and activity. Surely a collection exists if the person in question believes they have a collection.

Hence I have to agree with Russell Belks more up to date definition of  collecting:

'it is the process of actively, selectively, and passionately acquiring and possessing things removed from ordinary use and perceived as part of set of non-identical objects and experiences.'


Similar to this is the wikipedia definition of a collectable:-

A collectors item is any object regarded as being of interest to a collector not necessarily monetary value or antique.