Bill Viola

Bill Viola, Acceptance 2008
How does the artwork interact with the physical space it occupies?

This particular installation piece interacts interestingly with the physical space because, in a sense, it becomes the physical space. Acceptance, like much of Viola's work, takes up a majority of the room. The room is empty and it is dark, and the only visual information the viewer gets is the fifteen-plus foot projection of tenebrism-filled video. The imagery evokes tension due to its sheer visceral nature. Basically, the artwork interacts with the physical space around it by consuming it.

Watch: Acceptance

Faculty Exhibition 2017

Functional Considerations

I don't really see any major issues with the space. I don't think that bottle necking is going to be a problem either, given that that outer area is so open and fairly large. Moreover, the exhibition materials are durable and placed so that the space is easily accessible.

However, I do think there is a slight possibility that people that have mobility issues might encounter difficulty navigating the center of the gallery due to the objects on the floor. Aside from this though, the heights of the works and labeling are comfortable. Additionally, everything is well labeled and easy to read.

Formal Considerations

Though the space has little to specific visual style, it invites the viewer to move completely through it. The typographic aesthetics are subtle and are a secondary component when viewing the space. This is effective because it helps to not distract from the artwork. It is also effective because the labels are place at a comfortable height and easy to read.

Conceptual Considerations

The immediate message I get (without reading the labels) is that the show is intended to display the diversity of instructing modes of creating art. This is highlighted by the varied artistic mediums displayed throughout the space. This is also reinforced because the sequence of the space is fluid.  The fluidity of the space is effective, too, because it encourages the viewer to explore the diverse mediums being featured.

Visitor Observations

I honestly wouldn't change anything in the gallery space in regards to works, labeling, etc. However, I would consider an alternative placement or solution to the objects on the floor. 

The way that the space is set up makes it so that the visitors can both experience the art themselves and with each other. I also think that visitors over the age of 25 would enjoy the conceptual elements and the fluidity of the space. Contrarily, I think that visitors under the age of 25 will enjoy the playful aspects of the space and work. Additionally, I think that both will be less concerned with the typography and archival elements.