This bachelor's thesis examines the role of exhibition texts in the perception of contemporary visual art, investigating whether they enhance the viewer's understanding or restrict the interpretative experience. It is based on the premise that an artwork should primarily communicate through its visual and material presence, while the exhibition text should function as an open extension of the work rather than as its definitive explanation. The theoretical section explores the development and function of exhibition texts, the role of the viewer, curatorial practice, and the power relations between the artist, the curator, and the institution. The empirical section is based on a survey showing that viewers perceive additional information mainly as an enrichment of their experience rather than as a replacement for their own interpretation. The findings highlight the importance of accessible exhibition texts that authentically convey the artist's perspective, while also demonstrating that overly prescriptive interpretations can limit the viewer's autonomy and establish a form of control over the meaning of the artwork.
|
