After the success of Olafur Eliasson's Weather Project in the Tate Modern, curators have fought hard to replicate the ‘experiential art’. But is it possible to predict engagement, asks Will Gompertz.
Once upon a time, going to an art museum was a straightforward affair. There were paintings and sculptures to look at, learn about and consider - maybe over a coffee in the institution's café. And then you went home. Nice and simple.
Not any more.
Like promenade theatre and interactive games, the stakes have been raised: The 21st century gallery-goer must now participate. Museums are becoming "experiential" places. Fun palaces in which you become part of the artwork.
When the Tate's Director, Nicholas Serota, was briefing the press about the new extension to Tate Modern - The Switch House, to be opened in June next year - he said he wanted it to be a place where "your whole body is engaged in the experience"... Keep reading on BBC
Once upon a time, going to an art museum was a straightforward affair. There were paintings and sculptures to look at, learn about and consider - maybe over a coffee in the institution's café. And then you went home. Nice and simple.
Not any more.
Like promenade theatre and interactive games, the stakes have been raised: The 21st century gallery-goer must now participate. Museums are becoming "experiential" places. Fun palaces in which you become part of the artwork.
When the Tate's Director, Nicholas Serota, was briefing the press about the new extension to Tate Modern - The Switch House, to be opened in June next year - he said he wanted it to be a place where "your whole body is engaged in the experience"... Keep reading on BBC