DETROIT— A note to all of the struggling art museums contemplating deaccessioning works to shore up depreciating endowments: Sell someone else's work instead. That’s what the Detroit Institute of Arts is doing. In an attempt to combat the brutal economy, DIA has announced that it will sponsor an art auction to raise funds for the museum. The artworks won’t come from its collection but rather donations from the public. The museum is accepting all mediums, as long as the artwork is valued at greater than $250.

Thus far, the museum has already received works by such high-profile artists as Alexander Calder and Max Ernst. “What we like about the sale that it gets the public involved,” said DIA spokeswoman Pam Marcil. “And it's a good way for people to add to their own personal collection — and do good for the museum as well.” The auction will take place in early October. Donations of artwork are being accepted until July 17.

Read more at the Detroit News.