the museum series of projects by the artist matej košir has touched on a subject that have always fascinated me… the alternating perceptions of art and media. the museum project explores the ideas around the question of; what constitutes an original. by framing photographic images of popular still life recreated, and exhibited in the familiar format of museum. the new original which is thereby created becomes an alternative image which is neither a copy nor a replica but a uniquely similar image. another project in the series is called masterpiece; it explores the iconography of famous sculpture by reproductions that initially trigger the viewer’s recognition, only after closer inspection to discover that they have been altered. the issue of the flippancy with which the viewer reacts towards these masterpieces points to the serious lack of perceptual acuity, the role of society’s conditioning and blatant acceptance of this by the viewer is portrayed with disturbing alacrity. another series, arthistory turns the focus on violence, how society seems to delude itself by imagining that violence of one kind can remedy another. this intriguing contradiction is poignantly illustrated with a document of revolution related artworks which had itself suffered the violent effects of burning. the relationship between the viewer and the artwork is investigated further in a project called WdPW?; what do pictures want. the expression of the remote and dissociative is cleverly done through a series of photographs of viewers in a gallery. again the value of art and it’s importance get highlighted and the decontextualized crowd seem to explode from the confines of the artwork. it becomes clear that košir’s intellectual motivations are centered around the commerciality of art and the perceived value it has to society. a problematic discourse to resolve but cleverly animated in a well produced series of works. the subtlety of the work and its intentional introduction to debate is what interests me most, however the projects in their entirety possess a message which is undeniably powerful: ‘believing in the art is retreating to believing in the idea of art.’
LB Louis Boshoff
Museum Qualities
Stupidity & Sensitivity
Since it’s nearly impossible to gauge each individual’s level of sensitivity or stupidity, I’d rather play it safe and classify this site as suitable for adults only. Although that term is still nebulous to me, the responsibility remains that of the viewer.
Curating & Criticism
The identification and definition of creativity are two different things. Challenging conventional interpretations and perspectives expands its validity and effect. I am convinced that collaborations and participation across creative industries allow for discovering a greater realisation of our potential.
Art & Collecting
I love mixing styles and textures, media and materials. But I believe in respecting personality when it comes to choosing work. There is of course the investment angle which is too boring to discuss here….or anywhere really. It is important to remember that when you live with art, it should be alive to you. That is to say it needs to move you. You need to have an affair with it.
Fashion & Architecture
Starting with the roof over your head and the clothes on your back. These are the things we inhabit. Without entering into the fashion vs trend debate. They also shape our sensibilities and the way we present ourselves.
Design & Function
Whether colour or form is your thing. Pattern or plain. What we choose to live with can make our lives easier or more challenging. Consider your commitment and convince yourself.
Gardens & Flowers
Since Eden it has been a fascination, inspiration, an indulgence of kings and common gardeners, a joy. No home is complete without it. Whether you go for potted, landscaped or organic, dry or shade, just go for it.
Treasures & Trash
Most of which are filed under S for sentimental. I respect that.
Heirlooms. Bargains. Souvenirs. Gifts. Curiosities. Found Objects. Impulse Buys.
Never hide what’s important or meaningful. Denial is a very ugly word.
History & Reality
Get to know yourself and others. As much as we live in the same world, everyone has their own version of it. Live up to yours, never fear your dreams and ideals lest they remain aspirations forever.