Janelle,

I think the scenario at the Hirschhorn would raise questions in the minds of
art curators, education curators, art museum professionals, etc.  But based on
my observation of museum visitors - not as systematic as others, and
definitely not as many years - the uninformed visitor who sees an art object
without a label or wall signage just keeps on walking.  Those with whom I've
spoken - having worked in museum visitor services - expressed frustration due
to a lack of information about contemporary art.  So, as I and others have
written, if an art museum wants to avoid an 'elitist' environment, they ought
to put informative labels and signage.

Some visitors do not have keen visual perception, but want to learn.  So,
explanatory text might be the only way to reach some people.  It's better for
such visitors to learn something than be put off by the lack of instruction.

[I believe you and I are thinking of the same 'contexts' in which artworks
might be presented . . . historical timelines, history and/or technique
specific to the medium, history and/or meaning of the identifiable subject,
etc.]

Sincerely,

Jay Heuman
Assistant Curator of Education
Nora Eccles Harrison Museum of Art
Utah State University (Logan)
t 435-797-0165
f 435-797-3423
e [log in to unmask]
www.artmuseum.usu.edu

Education costs money, but then so does ignorance.
Sir Claus Moser (b. 1922)



>Jay,
>I agree that art museums "should have further resources (labels and signage)
>easily accessible to those who want more".  Even so, many art museums
>present works in contexts other than historical (media, subject matter,
>etc.).  I don't believe that they are being irresponsible.
>I think that allowing a museum visitor to experience art in a different way
>is a positive thing.  I think that the Hirshorn's exhibit could be an
>exciting experience for any visitor.  If nothing else, it would raise a
>number of questions in the viewer's mind and possibly would lead to a more
>personal museum/art experience.
>Janelle

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