Department of Art History, Film and Visual Studies
University of Birmingham
The Barber Institute of Fine Arts: 7th-8th May 2014
There is a commonly held belief that art history’s business is to increase our store of knowledge and understanding of works of art. In this context, sharp separations have been drawn between art history and art criticism, which are perceived as separate spheres, fundamentally differing in their approach, motive, form and objects of study. But is it legitimate to draw such a sharp distinction? This is where the role of museum professionals becomes critically significant. Museum and gallery displays affect our perception and definition of ‘Art’, as much as the work of art critics. Curatorial strategies can disrupt traditional modes of viewing and through innovative uses of digital technologies can invite the spectator to see what might have been previously missed. Unconventional museum displays and interdisciplinary projects can break down traditional…
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