Why are paintings the most highly valued objects in an art auction? Why is glass sculpture considered corny by art snobs?
For most of my lifetime, I have observed a clear distinction between art and craft, especially in museums. Although the craft community tends to be more expansive and inclusive, it’s been quite rare until recently for museums to exhibit paintings, drawings and sculpture alongside furniture, garments, dishes and jewelry — no matter how exquisitely or conceptually made. Lately I have found myself more and more drawn to the “decorative arts,” not just because these tend to be decadently beautiful objects, but because we have underestimated their ability to carry a serious message.
There are four museum exhibitions on display this month that purposefully blur the hierarchical boundaries between genres and time periods, material and meaning. All of the shows question the relevance of an art history that has largely elevated white, academically trained men in favor of an approach that invites more nuance to all kinds of creative expression.
More than any other player in the arts ecosystem — whether it is fair or not — museums are tastemakers, and have the power to elevate historically undervalued art and artists. I invite you to take advantage of their curatorial expertise this October and immerse yourself in spaces full of incredible objects that act as containers of remarkable stories. There are a number of excellent museum shows in the region worth your time and energy. In particular, though, there are a few smaller museums exhibiting relevant, innovative work, as well as a major museum undergoing a groundbreaking, site-wide experiment.