The Barnes

Albert Barnes, who grew up poor, Became extremely rich And had the means to buy some art, Which satisfied an itch. He bought Cezannes, Renoirs, Monets, Picassos and Matisse And mounted all upon his walls As numbers did increase. He wrote a will with lots of terms About his precious art; The public could come twice a week And that was just the start. His paintings weren’t to be moved Or loaned to anyone, But since his death, financial woes Meant trouble had begun. A legal battle did ensue; The artwork all was moved. In spirit, Barnes was honored; A new building was approved. And thus I got to see this art His trustees seemed to save – A treasure trove unparalleled – While Barnes rolls in his grave! (Barnes Foundation Museum in Philadelphia)