There's good news for all those who were upset over the Boston Museum of Fine Art's decision to charge $200 for their debut viewing of 'The Clock' by Christian Marclay.
The original plan was to debut the piece at the opening of the Linde Family Wing for Contemporary Art, with the fee of $200 going towards the cost of the event. Now, the MFA has issued a press release for the new event; according to the press release,
For the 24-hour premiere, The Clock is included in Museum admission during MFA hours—from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday, September 16 and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 17. Overnight from 9 p.m. (September 16) through 10 a.m. (September 17), when only The Clock will be on view, guests will be admitted free of charge. There are no reservations and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The Loring Gallery will be arranged with couches and room for standing to accommodate a total of 48 visitors.
The decision to charge $200 for the debut viewing was protested by Christian Marclay himself, who said that "it has always been my express wish that there should be no additional charge to view my work 'The Clock', over and above any general admission price to an institution or any other venue, nor should it be used in connection with the promotion, advertisement or sponsorship of any person or business. This is contractually agreed by all institutions who own and exhibit 'The Clock'. It is my intention that my work be made equally accessible to all."
MFA director Malcom Rogers stated, of the new screening plan, that, "We are thrilled to be able to present three 24-hour screenings of 'The Clock.' We hope that everyone will take advantage of the various opportunities to experience this extraordinary piece, whether at the premiere, our 24-hour celebration, or later in October.”
Watch 5 minutes of the critically acclaimed installation below, and tell us what you think about the MFA's decision in the comments.