A Space of Many Dimensions: Reading the Museum as an Author (original) (raw)

This essay explores the Living Art Museum (Nýló) in Iceland and its role as an author in the cultural and historical narrative of Icelandic art. Established in response to criticisms of the National Gallery of Iceland, Nýló has undergone significant changes over thirty-five years, leading to an ongoing debate about its identity as a museum versus an exhibition space. The work argues for the recognition of museums as active producers of knowledge and history rather than passive collectors, thereby challenging traditional narratives and the authority of established institutions. By analyzing Nýló's functions and its political implications within the art community, the paper aims to redefine the concept of museums in contemporary society.