In the history of contemporary art, there are seminal exhibitions that have had a profound impact, challenging established norms and redefining the boundaries of artistic expression. One such groundbreaking exhibition was "When Attitudes Become Form," which took place in 1969 at the Kunsthalle Bern in Switzerland. Curated by Harald Szeemann, this exhibition brought together a diverse group of artists and showcased radical approaches to art-making that would go on to shape the trajectory of contemporary art. In this article, we explore the significance and enduring influence of "When Attitudes Become Form."
The Curatorial Vision
Harald Szeemann, an influential curator known for his innovative approaches, curated "When Attitudes Become Form" with the aim of highlighting artistic attitudes rather than presenting finished artworks. He sought to challenge the notion of what art could be and to emphasize process, experimentation, and the role of the artist in shaping the exhibition.
Radical Approaches to Art-Making
The exhibition featured artists who embraced unconventional materials, site-specific installations, and performative practices. Artists such as Joseph Beuys, Richard Serra, Eva Hesse, and Bruce Nauman presented works that pushed the boundaries of traditional art forms and engaged with the physicality of materials, the environment, and the viewer's participation.
Controversy and Reception
"When Attitudes Become Form" sparked controversy and debate due to its departure from conventional aesthetics and its emphasis on process-based art. Critics and traditional art institutions found the exhibition challenging, leading to conflicting reactions and differing interpretations of the exhibited artworks.
Documenting the Unconventional
The exhibition's impact extended beyond the physical space of the Kunsthalle Bern. Harald Szeemann commissioned renowned photographers, including Gianfranco Gorgoni, to document the installations and performances, creating a lasting record of the exhibition's radical artistic practices.
Shaping the Conceptual Art Movement
"When Attitudes Become Form" played a pivotal role in the development of the Conceptual Art movement, which emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The exhibition's focus on ideas, process, and the dematerialization of the artwork resonated with the core principles of Conceptual Art, which sought to prioritize the conceptual aspect of the artwork over its material form.
Influence on Curatorial Practice
Harald Szeemann's curatorial approach in "When Attitudes Become Form" set a precedent for future exhibitions and curatorial practices. His emphasis on artistic attitudes, process, and the integration of artists' visions into the exhibition design challenged traditional curator-artist relationships and paved the way for more collaborative and artist-centric curatorial models.
Enduring Legacy
"When Attitudes Become Form" continues to be regarded as a milestone exhibition that expanded the possibilities of contemporary art. Its impact can be seen in subsequent exhibitions, such as the 2013 recreation of the show at the Fondazione Prada in Venice, which reaffirmed the exhibition's enduring significance and relevance.
Conclusion
"When Attitudes Become Form" remains a pivotal exhibition that challenged traditional notions of art, curated by Harald Szeemann. It brought together artists who pushed the boundaries of artistic expression and highlighted the importance of process, experimentation, and the artist's role in shaping the exhibition. The show's influence extended beyond its initial reception, contributing to the development of the Conceptual Art movement and influencing future curatorial practices. "When Attitudes Become Form" continues to be celebrated as a groundbreaking exhibition that made history by redefining the possibilities of contemporary art and leaving a lasting impact on the art world.