The exhibition, developed in collaboration with Fraser, spans works from the late 1980s to today, including films, texts and documentation of her critical exploration of art’s relationship with institutions and audiences.
Fraser, known for institutional critique—art examining power structures in cultural institutions—focuses on identity, power and social structures.
Speaking to Poland's PAP news agency, she said her approach, shaped in the 1980s, differs from earlier critiques by emphasizing the interplay between institutions, artists, audiences, and issues of race, gender and class.
One highlight is a large-scale diagram mapping the art world's power hierarchies.
Fraser said it provokes self-reflection, particularly among artists and others in the art world, prompting them to consider their own position within the system.
She clarified that institutional critique is not just "art about art" but a practice fostering self-awareness.
"My goal is to create a space where the public can critically reflect on their relationships with cultural institutions and identity," she said, as cited by the PAP news agency.
Fraser distinguished institutional critique from political art and activism, saying that while activism often opposes institutions from the outside, her work engages from within.
"Some artists reject working with institutions entirely," she explained. "I believe that’s a false premise. It’s easy to stand outside institutions, but what matters is holding them accountable to their values."
She also said that cultural institutions' governance is often tied to political power.
"In Europe, museum directors are frequently appointed by government officials, leading to instability when political leadership changes," she said.
In contrast, she described American museums as more plutocratic, governed by wealthy donors who influence leadership.
Fraser’s work spans multiple formats, including film, installations, workshops, analysis, publications, interviews, activism and performance art.
She aims for accessibility, ensuring her performances are understandable to general audiences.
Maria Brewińska, curator of the exhibition, highlighted the shift in institutional critique.
"It was once practiced outside institutions, but now operates from within," Brewińska said. "The question is whether Polish institutions are willing to engage in self-reflection."
She also noted efforts in Poland to increase transparency in cultural leadership through competitive selection rather than government appointments.
Fraser is a professor at UCLA’s School of the Arts and Architecture. She is known for institutional critique and feminist art.
Her work examines the economic, social and emotional structures of cultural organizations.
Art Must Hang includes a performative lecture where Fraser discusses her work. The exhibition runs until June 8.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP, zacheta.art.pl