Andrea Fraser
Museum as Medium, Koldo Mitxelena, San Sebastian, Spain
October 23, 2008 - January 3, 2009The Museum as Medium
Dialogues on Museum Language and Contemporary Art
This international Symposium seeks to provide insights on innovative forms of display, presentation and interpretation of art. Museums in the Twentieth century have been shaped by the vision of contemporary artists, curators, and educators who have searched for various strategies of communication with their audiences. More than simply existing as a static structure, museums have become a contextual language that has allowed for reflection, critique, and innovation in the artistic dialogue.
The symposium will address topics regarding the function of contemporary art museums as tools for learning, dialogue and critical thought, particularly as it is reflected in the work of various contemporary artists. The panels addressing the same subject will take place in two parallel sessions in Mexico City and New York, with a different array of leading artists, curators and scholars. The beginning of each session will include keynote addresses by James Putnam (Mexico City) and by Stephen Jay Gould (New York). James Putnam will discuss the relationship between the artist and the museum in the Twentieth Century, as he explored in his work "Art and Artifact: The Museum as Medium".
Stephen Jay Gould, author of "Finders, Keepers: Eight Collectors", will address a number of critical issues, including the origins, the form, and possible future direction of the contemporary museum.
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Phone: 212 680 9467
Facsimile: 212 680 9473
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The gallery is located in Chelsea between 10th and 11th Avenues, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. and by appointment.
