article · CSUSB ScholarWorks (California State University, San Bernardino) · 2015

Human Interaction

Hicks, Timothy

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Abstract

My essay addresses the theme of relational aesthetics and community by focusing specifically on Rirkrit Tiravanija's performative installation titled Untitled (Free), (1992).In Tiravanija's work, these themes are conveyed and contextualized by the location of the exhibition of the installlation.I am addressing Nicolas Bourriaud's definition of relational aesthetics, in which case, I disagree with his non-political views of art.As Bourriaud argues, "[t]he artwork of the 1990s turns the beholder into a neighbor, a direct interlocutor.It is precisely the attitude of this generation toward communications that makes it possible to define it in relation to previous generations." 1I believe it is important when viewing performative artwork that the individual tries to retain an impartial position.In doing so, the viewer is better able to fully engage with the work and see it for what it is and the message that is being portrayed.If the viewer were to approach the work with a presumptuous stance, the message would be blurred and the intention would be lost.I do, however, agree with Bourriaud's ideas of aesthetics in relation to the work of Tiravanija.In this way I will explain my views of relational aesthetics, which I find problematic.The political expression in Untitled (Free) can be viewed by Tiravanija's showcase of a disenfranchised socio-economic class.As a work incorporating both performance and installation, the viewer's participation is very important to the piece.Tiravanija transformed the space in New York's 303 Gallery into an insightful dwelling with a makeshift kitchen, refrigerator, hot plates, rice steamers, vegetable curry, tables, and chairs.The structure is covered from floor to ceiling in wood and throughout the space there are also wooden frames that appear to mimic walls.This edifice is the

Cite this paper

APA 7

Hicks, T. (2015). Human Interaction. CSUSB ScholarWorks (California State University, San Bernardino).

MLA 9

Hicks, Timothy. “Human Interaction.” CSUSB ScholarWorks (California State University, San Bernardino), 2015.

Chicago

Hicks, Timothy. 2015. “Human Interaction.” CSUSB ScholarWorks (California State University, San Bernardino).

Harvard

Hicks, T. (2015) ‘Human Interaction’, CSUSB ScholarWorks (California State University, San Bernardino).

BibTeX

@article{hicks2015human,
  title = {{Human Interaction}},
  author = {Hicks, Timothy},
  journal = {CSUSB ScholarWorks (California State University, San Bernardino)},
  year = {2015}
}

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