Why does this even exist? Museums with Matt is a brain dropping resulting from a cross country trip, a couple of Phish shows, and good friends finding ways to amuse themselves. The kernel of this website was borne from having fun with providing alternative titles and subtitles to works of art. This was by no means intended to diminish the art itself, but it recognizes that context is important for the interpretation and that there is more than one way to view most things.
Why museums? There is an irony in museums. At least with the cold, arrogant, intimidating buildings that many people think of when they hear “Art Museum.” Great works are collected and displayed to augment your life experience, to expose you to new and potentially revolutionary concepts, and to find a connection with a time or culture that is not your own. However, the experience is engineered, rigid, and with a preordained flow. Docents are present to explain the significance of the work and guide you through interpretation. Let’s be honest; this is a very confining experience.
What is a museum? For my purposes, I think it’s a very generalizable concept. Any place where a collection of things or experiences intended to augment your experience are presented for admiration and appreciation would count. The buildings described above, obviously. But, what children’s museums? Typically museums are educational in some way, but private collections should count. Art at a subway stop? Sure! My collection of concert posters? Why not? All these provide this sort of opportunity. In mind, all are fair game for my purposes here.
But seriously, what the hell, dude? This is a creative outlet. Hopefully, you’ll find it funny. It’s never meant to be offensive, but with humor, there’s always that potential. Certainly, I will flirt with the line. If I got too far, I do so unapologetically. If this isn’t your place, I won’t be offended. Have fun with it, I know I will. Caveat emptor et carpe diem!
So, I challenge you to create your own experiences. Find museums, break the rules, and experience things in your own way. Have fun with it and find the beauty in the ridiculous.