Identifying a Conceptual Framework for the Study of Visitors’ Verbalizations of Self-Awareness while Exploring Contemporary Art in a Museum Context

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Anne-Marie Émond

Abstract

Abstract: Within the context of a research project in a museum setting where adults are engaged with contemporary art, the purpose of the article is to outline a comprehensive conceptual framework for the identification of moments of self-awareness. In particular, based on the analysis of 70 adult visitors’ discourses, we advocate the use of Morin’s model of self-information and levels of self-awareness to identify and articulate moments underlying the discovery of self that could contribute to an optimal museum experience. The transposition of Morin’s model into a conceptual framework will help researchers pursue their investigation into visitors’ art appreciation for the purpose of building authentic dialogues between contemporary art and adult visitors.

KEYWORDS: Museum education; Contemporary art; Adult visitors; Self-awareness; Conceptual framework.

Résumé: Cet article entend proposer un cadre conceptuel polyvalent pour identifier les moments de prise de conscience de soi chez des adultes confrontés à l’art contemporain, par le biais d’une recherche menée en contexte muséal. Plus particulièrement, nous préconisons, sur la base de l’analyse du discours de soixante-dix visiteurs adultes, l’utilisation des différents niveaux de conscience de soi et du modèle d’auto-information de Morin pour identifier et décrire les moments qui sous-tendent la découverte de soi, susceptibles d’optimiser l’expérience muséale. La transposition du modèle de Morin à un cadre conceptuel aidera les chercheurs à poursuivre leur étude de l’appréciation artistique des visiteurs en vue d’établir un authentique dialogue entre l’art contemporain et les visiteurs adultes. 

MOTS CLES: Éducation muséale; Art contemporain; Visiteurs adultes; Conscience de soi; Cadre conceptual

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