Introduction to the Ruby Slippers

The ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz have recently been sold at auction for a staggering $28 million, setting a new record for an item of film memorabilia. This iconic pair of shoes has captured the imagination of countless enthusiasts and collectors around the world. As someone who recently became the proud new owner, let's explore what your decision might be if you were in my shoes, and also consider what the new owner might actually do.

Step into My Shoes: What Would You Do?

Imagine you've just become the owner of these legendary ruby slippers. What steps would you take? Here are a few options:

Preserve the Heritage

If you're deeply passionate about preserving the history and heritage of The Wizard of Oz, you might want to showcase these slippers in an exclusive exhibit. Perhaps you could partner with a museum or a cultural institution to curate an exhibit that tells the story of the ruby slippers and their cultural impact. This exhibit could include artifacts from the film, historical insights, and interactive elements to engage visitors.

Auctioning the Slippers

What about the newest owner's choice? If you believe these items could still fetch a high price at auction, you would likely sell them quickly. This strategy maximizes profit but also risks losing a unique piece of history. Selling to a collector or a museum ensures that the object remains accessible to the public, giving future generations the opportunity to admire this piece of cinematic history.

Create a Fund

Another option you might consider is using the proceeds from the sale to establish a fund for supporting film preservation and promoting gratitude and generosity. This approach not only helps others but also ties back to the values carried by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. The fund could support filmmakers, provide resources to underprivileged children, or even create scholarships for students interested in film and media.

Combine Heritage and Commercial Ventures

Perhaps the most intriguing path would be to blend heritage with commercial endeavors. You could collaborate with filmmakers, fashion designers, and corporate partners to create a series of limited-edition ruby slippers. These could be sold as part of a special collection to benefit a worthy cause, promoting the spirit of generosity and creativity.

What the New Owner Might Do

The new owner of the ruby slippers might opt for a different approach. Despite setting a record for the highest auction price ever, the new owner could decide to:

Private Collection

Maintaining a private collection can offer the advantage of keeping valuable artifacts in a safe, secure environment. The new owner might choose to store the slippers in a specialized museum-quality safe, with restricted access to protect both the item and its value.

Philanthropic Use

Given the historical and cultural significance of the ruby slippers, the new owner might use them for a variety of philanthropic endeavors. These could include lending the slippers to museums for temporary exhibits, or donating them to a charity that supports children's literacy or education in the arts.

Digitization and Preservation

Alternatively, the new owner might focus on preserving and digitizing the ruby slippers. This could involve creating high-resolution scans that allow for public viewing, while also ensuring the physical item remains undamaged. By utilizing advanced technology, the new owner can share this piece of cinema history with a global audience, making it more accessible to fans and researchers.

Conclusion

Whether you're the original owner or stand in the shoes of the new buyer, the ruby slippers represent more than just value; they symbolize the magic and wonder of The Wizard of Oz. Your decision will reflect your priorities, values, and vision for what these symbols of Dorothy's journey should mean for future generations.