simondepury: Kim and Lionel Logchies founders of the MOCO Museums in Amsterdam and Barcelona last night gave a sneak preview of the space that will house the MOCO Museum in London For our amazing ARTde Project. It is located at 1 Marble Arch and is expected to open in early July #moco #ARTdePROJECT #mocoamsterdam #mocobarcelona #mocolondon #kimlogchies #lionellogchies @mocomuseum @kimlogchiesprins
as posted on simon instagram
Roselee Goldberg is a Art historian, author, Founding Director and Chief Curator of Performa. Professor, NYU Steinhardt
It is an honor to have An amazing lady before you as an art historian, celebrating the intersection of creativity, culture, and technology. Our journey begins by acknowledging the profound impact that museums have on artists, the artistic process, and the broader human experience.
Museums, those hallowed halls where time stands still, serve as more than mere repositories of art. They are sanctuaries where artists find inspiration, validation, and a sense of continuity. Let us delve into history to understand their significance:
1. The Birth of Museums
The concept of museums traces back to ancient Alexandria, where the famed “Museion” was akin to a university—a place of learning, reflection, and intellectual exchange. The word “museum” itself derives from the nine Muses, the Greek goddesses of inspiration. These spaces were not just about displaying objects; they were about fostering creativity and understanding.
2. Wunderkammern
In early modern Europe, curious nobles and scholars assembled “Wunderkammern” or “cabinets of wonders.” These collections showcased the riches of the world—animal specimens, minerals, art, and more. These proto-museums celebrated curiosity, sparking innovation and wonder.
3. Artists and Museums
Artists have long relied on museums for exposure, validation, and preservation. Museums acquire their works, ensuring their legacy endures. The act of exhibiting in a museum elevates an artist’s status, connecting them to a lineage of creativity that transcends time.
Now, let us pivot to the present and explore how technology breathes new life into our beloved museums:
1. Immersive Experiences
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) transport us beyond physical walls. The Prado Museum in Madrid, for instance, offers a 360-degree immersive experience. Through collaboration with digital platforms, visitors can virtually step into masterpieces, bridging centuries and cultures
2. Democratizing Access
Technology democratizes culture. Digital tools allow us to explore art remotely, breaking down geographical barriers. The National Museum of Singapore’s “Story of the Forest” exhibition uses projections and displays to create enchanting worlds, drawing visitors into the heart of art1.
3. Art-Driven Innovation
Artists themselves drive technological innovation. Their experimentation pushes boundaries, inspiring new tools and techniques. Think of how photography, cinema, and digital art emerged from artistic vision and technological prowess.
Let us not forget the historic feats achieved through this synergy:
1. From Ink to Pixels
Ink, paper, glass, cameras, and computers—these technologies enable art. Without them, our museums would lack the vibrant tapestry of creativity that surrounds us.
2. Art as Catalyst
Art drives technological progress. Artists’ visions spark innovation, leading to breakthroughs in materials, techniques, and communication.
3. Visitor Engagement
Technology enhances the visitor experience. Whether through interactive exhibits, multimedia guides, or immersive installations, it deepens our connection to art.
As we envision the future, consider this: Museums are not relics of the past; they are laboratories of possibility. Imagine holographic exhibitions, AI-guided tours, and collaborative digital art. The museum of tomorrow integrates seamlessly with modern life, inviting all—novices and connoisseurs alike—to explore, learn, and create.In conclusion, let us embrace technology as our ally, enriching the museum experience and ensuring that art remains a vibrant force across generations. As we stand at this crossroads, let us honor tradition while embracing innovation, for therein lies the magic of art and technology.Thank you, and may our museums continue to inspire, educate, and ignite our imaginations.