Joseph Kosuth at the Louvre: A Conceptual Intervention in Medieval Foundations
Joseph Kosuth, an influential figure in conceptual art since the 1960s, presented an installation at the Musée du Louvre in Paris from October 22, 2009, to June 2, 2010. Departing from the approach of earlier artists, he chose not to interact with the museum's collection but instead concentrated on the architectural core of the medieval fortress. For the first time, Kosuth incorporated original texts, which were showcased in neon on the historic walls. Titled "Ni apparence ni illusion," this work delves into language and meaning, introducing a fresh narrative perspective. He alluded to the intricate foundations, aiming to subvert expectations. The installation concludes with the phrase: "Fifteen stones in place, all emerged from the shadows..." emphasizing the creation of meaning over formal aspects.
Key facts
- Joseph Kosuth created an installation at the Louvre from October 22, 2009, to June 2, 2010.
- The installation was in the medieval foundations of the Louvre.
- Kosuth wrote original texts for the first time, instead of appropriating existing ones.
- The texts are displayed in neon, a material Kosuth has used for 45 years.
- The work is titled 'Ni apparence ni illusion'.
- Kosuth avoided dialogue with the collection, focusing on the palace's foundations.
- The installation includes a reference to Borges and the labyrinthine foundations.
- Kosuth cited a conversation with Donald Judd about art movements.
- The work marks a shift towards narrative and phenomenological engagement.
- Kosuth was invited after artists like Anselm Kiefer and Yan Pei-Ming.
Entities
Artists
- Joseph Kosuth
- Anselm Kiefer
- Yan Pei-Ming
- Donald Judd
- Ad Reinhardt
- Marcel Duchamp
- Germano Celant
- Erik Verhagen
Institutions
- Musée du Louvre
- Jewish Museum
- art press
- Electa
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Milan
- Italy
Sources
- artpress —