Site-specificity

Site-specific art, at least the way Miwon Kwon presents it, is much more tangible, and in some ways, more logical than Situationism. It's also more forceful because it is broad and encompasses many types of art, yet it forces meaning and purpose to all these various forms of art and expression. Artwork is no longer passive beauty to be admired -it carries a message, and in order to fully comprehend and embrace this message, the viewer needs to understand the context (both physical and theoretical) that it is presented in. It is completely centered and focused on relationships - with the environment, the viewer, the current social and political backdrop, etc. Similar to Situationism though, it is ironic and interesting how although Site-specific art is a critique on the institutional of the museum and its subsequently implied social and economic implications, it can't fully break away from the culture of the museum and art life as a secular religion. It indirectly relies on the institution of the museum -and the socioeconomic standing of those that visit it to construct and promote its idea, just like Andy Warhol's artwork did. It seems as if a lot of contemporary and critical art loops back like this -so is it just the idea that counts?

Kwon also discusses the authenticity and validity in reproduction of site-specific art and its creator. I don't think all work lose its meaning and originality when relocated, maybe only the art that was intended to be site-specific (is all art site specific in some ways?) Although perhaps not to its original degree, art can definitely still be appreciated outside of its original context - with explanations, study, and understanding. How else will artwork and unique ideas spread and educate people to incite the change or pondering it intends to? A lot of art is impossible to appreciate and value in it's original context, which is why we rely on the photographs, along with related writings, discussions, and disclaimers. How important really, are each of the relationships the piece of work has with its original environment, artist, intended audience etc?