This museum educator-led tour, guided by Maria, will delve into the multiple works of American sculptor and performance artist Scott Burton, exploring his unique use of the medium of furniture. We’ll explore why Burton focused on everyday objects—particularly the chair—and how he transformed this familiar form throughout his career.
Key to our exploration is the idea posed by media theorist Marshall McLuhan, who famously said, “The medium is the message.” McLuhan suggested that how we communicate is just as significant as what we say. For Burton, the chair was more than a piece of furniture; it was a medium with clear and hidden meanings. Throughout the tour, we’ll consider his works’ deeper layers of tension and meaning.
At the Pulitzer Arts Foundation, our Museum Educators are passionate students who bring diverse perspectives to our community. As part of our year-long Museum Educators Program, these individuals enhance their interdisciplinary research, public speaking, and professional skills while engaging with art and the public in meaningful ways.
