Ellen Dissanayake

Definition

Ellen Dissanayake is an influential American art historian and author known for her work on the evolutionary basis of art and aesthetics. She introduces the concept of 'making special' to explain how art has been a fundamental aspect of human culture across time and societies. This idea connects deeply with interpretive materials and labels in art curation, as it emphasizes the role of context in enhancing the viewer's experience and understanding of artworks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dissanayake's work emphasizes that art is not merely a decorative addition to life, but an essential part of human evolution and social development.
2. She argues that the act of making art serves to create connections within communities, reinforcing social bonds through shared aesthetic experiences.
3. Her concept of 'making special' highlights how cultural practices transform ordinary objects or events into meaningful experiences through artistic expression.
4. Dissanayake's theories encourage curators to consider how interpretive materials can enhance viewer engagement by contextualizing artworks within their cultural significance.
5. Her insights have influenced contemporary curatorial practices, pushing for deeper connections between artworks and their audiences through thoughtful labeling.

Review Questions

• How does Ellen Dissanayake's concept of 'making special' relate to the creation of interpretive materials in art curation?
  • Ellen Dissanayake's concept of 'making special' illustrates that art transforms everyday experiences into something meaningful and significant. This idea directly relates to interpretive materials, as curators can utilize labels to frame artworks in a way that highlights their cultural importance. By emphasizing the context and meaning behind artworks through well-crafted interpretive materials, curators can deepen viewers' appreciation and understanding, allowing them to experience the art as something truly special.
• In what ways does Dissanayake's emphasis on the evolutionary basis of art influence modern gallery management practices?
  • Dissanayake's emphasis on the evolutionary significance of art influences modern gallery management by encouraging curators to view art as a fundamental human practice. This perspective drives galleries to create more inclusive and engaging environments where diverse audiences can connect with artworks. By focusing on how interpretive materials can communicate the shared human experience behind artistic creation, galleries can foster a deeper appreciation for art and its role in culture.
• Critically evaluate how Ellen Dissanayake's theories could reshape future practices in interpretive labeling within art institutions.
  • Ellen Dissanayake's theories could significantly reshape future practices in interpretive labeling by promoting a more relational approach to audience engagement. By focusing on the intrinsic value of art in fostering community and connection, curators might adopt labels that prioritize storytelling and emotional resonance over purely academic descriptions. This shift would encourage institutions to create labels that invite interaction and personal reflection, ultimately enhancing visitor experiences and making art more accessible and relevant to diverse audiences.

Related terms

Aesthetic Experience: Aesthetic experience refers to the emotional and cognitive engagement a viewer has when interacting with an artwork, which can be influenced by interpretive materials.

Contextualization: Contextualization is the process of placing an artwork within its historical, cultural, and social framework, which is crucial for creating effective interpretive materials.

Curation: Curation involves the selection and organization of artworks for display, including the creation of interpretive labels that communicate the significance and meaning of those works.