When it comes to rules surrounding photography, most international museums have become more permissive in recent years, in order to improve their brand image and maintain a link with their audience. Photo: AFP
There are few places more condusive to photography than museums. But some art establishments take a dim view of visitors snapping some of their prize pieces. However, these bans are gradually being reviewed to meet the expectations of an increasingly connected audience.
This change of heart is reflected in the Museo Reina Sofía's new policy on Guernica (1937), by Pablo Picasso. For decades, the Madrid museum had forbidden its visitors from taking photos of the Spanish artist's gigantic anti-war painting. This precautionary measure was intended to protect the painting from camera flashes, but also to avoid leading to a mass of people armed with smartphones and selfie poles gathering in front of the artwork.
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