UK council criticised over sale of collection including works by pioneering photographer Tony Ray-Jones

"Due to the lack of viable alternative storage options and in light of the significant financial pressures facing the county council, no suitable alternatives were identified. However, the council admits that the works have not been offered to any of the county's museums or galleries."

"The disposal of significant photography and other artwork [from public collections] is always a concern, especially when it includes rare work from figures such as Tony Ray-Jones-one of Britain's great documentary photographers and an inspiration to luminaries such as the late Martin Parr. Kent's short-term financial gain will be at the long-term cultural expense of Kent residents and visitors."

Kent County Council is selling 168 lots from the Kent Visual Arts Loan Scheme collection through auction on March 10. The collection includes works by notable artists such as Tony Ray-Jones (33 photographs), Andy Goldsworthy, and Sidney Nolan. The council states the artworks have been stored in County Hall's basement and require relocation due to lack of alternative storage options and significant financial pressures. The authority has not offered the works to local museums or galleries. Photography historian Michael Pritchard expresses concern about disposing of rare documentary photography, warning that short-term financial gains will result in long-term cultural loss for Kent residents and visitors.

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