Donating Photographs or Archival Materials to the CCP
Please note: The Center for Creative Photography is currently observing a pause in our acquisitions activity. We look forward to resuming this important work in the near future.
Since its founding in 1975, the CCP has been dedicated to preserving the history of photography and celebrating the medium as it continues to evolve. With this goal in mind, and largely through the generosity its donors, the CCP has assembled one of the world’s most significant collections of fine print photographs, books, and archival materials related to modern North American photography. Join us as we continue to grow our collection! Your gift of artwork will become part of photography’s enduring legacy at the CCP.
The Center acquires work through purchase and donation. Dedicated to expanding the history of photography, generating new discourse, and reflecting the rich variety of our communities, CCP established an endowment in 2021 committed to diversifying the collection and acquiring the work of historically underrepresented artists. As the Center approaches its 50th Anniversary, it is critical that the institution focuses on sustainable collecting practices for the next 50 years. To do this work with best practice, CCP is undergoing an assessment of acquisition criteria, staffing, process, and capacity. During this time, the acceptance of donations will be greatly reduced.
FAQ
Q: How does the CCP decide to acquire material?
A: The CCP is committed to the principle that all collecting be done according to the highest standards of ethical and professional practice, and in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal legislation, as well as international agreements. New acquisitions must be consistent with the CCP’s Mission Statement and Collecting Plan, and are selected to enhance the cultural and educational value of the Collection with a view toward their utilization in scholarship, exhibitions, and publications. The CCP Acquisitions Committee review material and makes acquisitions decisions quarterly.
Q: What are the steps needed to donate material to the CCP?
A: If you are interested in making a donation to the Fine Print collection, please email an inventory of the material on offer to the Assistant Registrar. Inventories should include artist, title, date, medium, dimensions, copyright notice, provenance and a thumbnail of the image. This information is used to inform the our Acquisitions Committee. If the potential gift is determined to fall within the CCP’s Mission and Collecting Plan, the Assistant Registrar will arrange shipment of the work to the Center for evaluation by the Acquisitions Committee. In order to ship the work here, a temporary loan agreement must be signed by both the CCP and the donor. The Assistant Registrar will then complete the gifting process if the donation moves forward.
For inquiries about the future placement of an archive, please fill in the our initial inquiry form, noting that we are not currently able to acquire materials.
Q: Can I just send my donation to the CCP first?
A: The CCP cannot accept unsolicited donations on site or through the mail and retains the right to refuse any such shipments or deliveries. In order for CCP to collect responsibly and with best practice in mind, proposed donations must be evaluated prior to shipment. Accepting such unsolicited donations violates the CCP’s collections management policy.