In a straightforward sense, Robert Smithson’s statement refers to the effect that a simple, unadorned space has on artworks displayed within it. He describes such spaces as being devoid of any distracting elements or overt styles, allowing artworks to be showcased in a setting that emphasizes their neutrality rather than overshadowing them with elaborate design or thematic elements.
Smithson’s quote delves deeper into the concept of how art interacts with its environment and the perception this creates for viewers. A stark white room with basic lighting can serve as a backdrop that allows works of art to undergo what he describes metaphorically as an "esthetic convalescence." This process suggests that in such settings, artworks are given a chance to recover from or transcend their initial contexts, revealing them in a purer form devoid of external influences. The idea is that the simplicity and neutrality of the space help viewers focus on the intrinsic qualities and messages of each piece rather than being swayed by the room’s design elements.
Robert Smithson was an influential American artist and writer known for his contributions to conceptual art, land art, and photography in the mid-20th century. His work often explored themes related to the relationship between natural landscapes and constructed environments, reflecting on how human intervention affects these spaces. Known for creating site-specific installations that challenged conventional notions of where and what constitutes art, Smithson’s ideas continue to influence contemporary artists and theorists interested in examining the interplay between physical spaces and artistic expression.
