IN CONTEXT

What is the role of text, disclaimers and trigger warnings in museums? Miriam Cahn's exhibition features a painting with a controversial history. Previously, this work was shown at Palais de Tokyo in Paris, where it caused quite an uproar. Critics interpreted the image as representing pedophilia. The artist denied this and emphasized that the painting depicted the horrors of using rape as a weapon of war. A legal complaint was filed in an attempt to have the work removed from the museum, but the judge ruled that the painting could remain. According to the judge, the museum had provided sufficient context around the work and given the public adequate warning. After the ruling, an activist vandalized the work. The restored painting is now on display at the Stedelijk. But which context should the Stedelijk provide?  

This example vividly illustrates the debate around context and warnings for contentious works of art. In this program, we dig deeper into the extent to which a museum should guide, caution or warn visitors about the exhibits on display. Who decides whether a work of art can be labeled shocking or offensive? The creator, the museum, or the audience? How does a content warning affect the interpretation of the work? Do visitors need to be protected, or does the museum limit the artist's freedom by offering disclaimers? Together with various speakers, we will discuss how texts influence visitors' experience of art and the choices museums make to safeguard visitors while preserving the artist's freedom of expression. 

Details of the speakers will be announced shortly. 

About In Context

Art has always played an important role in igniting social debate. Given the rise of ultra-nationalism, xenophobia and climate crises, socially engaged art seems to be needed now more than ever. Does this mean that the museum is also a platform for protest and change? Can a museum promote social change without taking a stand itself? And to what extent should museums encourage visitors to confront and engage with social issues? Should the museum use disclaimers and trigger warnings to protect visitors, or simply let them deal with uncomfortable confrontations? 

Rather than presenting simplistic answers, this program invites us to consider the role of art in society and the museum’s responsibility in this regard. 

This program is the third of the three-part series In Context, about the complex relationship between art, activism and the museum. The other two programs will take place on 20 October and November 9. For more information please click here.