Construing Cultural Heritage: The Stagings of an Artist: The Case of Ivar Arosenius

This study investigates how Ivar Arosenius portrayed himself as cultural heritage at the turn of the 19th century, how this heritage was interpreted after his death, and how digitization can facilitate new approaches and insights into his artworks. It employs the concept of "staging" to explore how the artist and reception constructed his legacy.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 75 pages
\n Publication date: 10 June 2021
\n Publisher: Cambridge University Press
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This comprehensive study delves into the intricate dynamics of an artist's perception of cultural heritage at the turn of the 19th century, the subsequent interpretations of this heritage following the artist's passing, and the potential of digital archives to facilitate fresh approaches and insights into their artistic creations. By employing the concept of "staging," the study explores the various means employed by the artist and the reception to construct and convey this cultural heritage. It goes beyond merely examining how the artist has been retrieved from archives and delves into the possibilities of re-invoking the artist in novel ways through the digital realm.

The study begins by establishing a theoretical framework, drawing upon the concepts of mediation and agency. It then delves into the process of staging the artist after his death, examining how his legacy is perpetuated and reimagined through various means. Finally, the study focuses on the artist's own strategies for self-staging, shedding light on the ways in which they shaped their public image and artistic identity.

The case study revolves around the Swedish painter Ivar Arosenius (1878–1909), whose work and life offer a rich tapestry of insights into the period and the artistic landscape of his time. Through a meticulous examination of Arosenius's paintings, writings, and archival materials, the study uncovers the ways in which he interpreted and presented himself as a cultural heritage figure. It explores the various influences and inspirations that shaped his artistic vision, as well as the strategies he employed to convey his cultural identity to his audience.

The study also examines the subsequent interpretations of Arosenius's heritage by various scholars, art historians, and collectors. It explores how his work has been re-contextualized and re-evaluated over time, and how it continues to resonate with contemporary audiences. Through the use of digital archives, the study provides a platform for exploring Arosenius's artistic creations in new and innovative ways, allowing for a deeper understanding of his artistic process and the broader cultural context in which he operated.

In conclusion, this study offers a profound exploration of the complex relationship between an artist, their cultural heritage, and the digital realm. It sheds light on the ways in which artists shape their public image and artistic identity, and how the digital archive can facilitate new approaches and insights into their creations. Through the case study of Ivar Arosenius, the study provides a valuable contribution to the field of art history and cultural heritage studies, offering a rich and nuanced understanding of the past and the potential for the future.

\n Weight: 152g\n
Dimension: 151 x 226 x 9 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781108794503\n \n