Social representation of the subject in the dialogue with the artist and the contemporary art conservator

Abstract

The work makes an approach to social psychology, and more specifically, to the field of social representation of the subject, from the perspective of the conservation and restoration of contemporary art. The use of semi-directed interviews as a method of obtaining information for the interpretation of current works, and for the understanding of the position defended by the artist before the restoration of his work, is something habitual and necessary as a first step of the interventions to be made. In this sense, the previous perceptions that both groups have, both artists and conservators-restorers, can influence them. Social representations are present in the process of obtaining information necessary for the common objective of the preservation of the cultural property. Some of the objectives of this article have been to deepen the study of relationships established before and during interviews between artists and curators, that is, between the subjects involved in the production, dissemination and preservation of contemporary art.

As a result of the investigation, we reflect on the passage of time and its effect on the subject of works of art, and on the approach to the state of ruin and death, while proposing a series of questions that can serve as a guide during encounters between the agents mentioned above.