The conference will focus on fundamental questions, such as being an artist, and will explore artistic processes and working methods. For instance, Nauman’s work will be discussed against the backdrop of its sociocultural context and technological developments. His interest in and investigations of music, time, spatial experience and power structures offer new points of reference for current enquiries in art theory and criticism. Individual works will also be discussed such as the made-for-TV video Untitled (Flour Arrangements) (1967), which Nauman created together with his artist colleagues Peter Saul and William Allan.
Following the individual talks, a moderated round table conversation gives speakers the opportunity to engage in further discussion, and audience members an opportunity to participate. The focused and concentrated examination of Bruce Nauman’s oeuvre provides scholars as well as the general public with new inspirations and insights into the wide-ranging work of this artist.
The conference has been organized by Schaulager, Laurenz Foundation, Basel; in collaboration with eikones – Center for the Theory and History of the Image, University of Basel.
