Nazi's, Art & The University of Oklahoma, Part Deux
This is the painting that's caused almost one year of controversy. It's called "Shepherdness Bringing In Sheep."
It was owned by the Raoul Meyer family and was seized by the Nazi regime during World War 2.
The family was forced to evacuate Paris and since then the painting has made the rounds. It's been to Switzerland, New York and now is in the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on the campus of The University of Oklahoma.
The Meyer's daughter, Leone, wants the painting returned. She feels it's part of her family legacy. It would only be slightly cynical to suggest that money is involved...just slightly.
The University is digging in its heels. They feel the painting is legally theirs. The statute of limitations on this has passed. They're willing to go to court and get a final ruling.
It would be important because this has happened at other art museums and this could set a precedent.
Although this isn't a huge international story, it has had some play. It broke with a piece in the Daily Oklahoman newspaper. That made sense because it was a story of local interest.
My blog followed a few days later.
Then the story became larger both in Europe and the United States.
One common thread is the overwhelming view that the painting should be returned to the family. You'd see this in both the stories and the comment sections.
So why am I revisiting this almost a year later?
Because Emily Neff, the director of the museum resigned to pursue other career opportunities. Is she really looking for something better or is she the fall guy for the bad publicity the University has received?
I have no idea. My guess is we'll never know the entire story.
This is David Boren. He's the President of The University of Oklahoma. He's held that position since 1994. Before that he served in the U.S. Senate and was Governor of Oklahoma.
I'm a big fan of Boren. He's done some great things for the University. There are new buildings all over campus. Donations have come in at a record rate. The grades and tests scores of incoming Freshman are higher than ever. He even teaches a class on Political Science.
Boren has also had a few mishaps. He's involved himself in some football controversies that's embarrassed both himself and the school.
This is a story that has gone on way too long. This is a story where Boren can show some leadership and humanity. It's a chance to cement his legacy as a great university president. This is a story that could and should have a happy ending.
It's time to give the painting back to the family. At the very least broker a deal where the family owns the painting and the museum gets the rights to keep showing it. Pretty simple, isn't it?
The University may win in a court of law but it's never going to win in the court of public opinion. Why not do the right thing, get some positive publicity and everyone goes home a winner?
In the above photo, you see President Boren with the Homecoming King and Queen. Nice picture. It's time for a picture of Boren, Leone and the painting.