Book Launch : Pernille Lystlund Matzen & Jacob Lund : Symbolic Machines – Institutional Transformation Through Exhibitions

On Thursday, 19 June, please join us for the book launch of the anthology ‘Symbolic Machines – Institutional Transformation Through Exhibitions’ edited by Pernille Lystlund Matzen, curator and PhD, and Jacob Lund, associate professor of Aesthetics and Culture at Aarhus University.

The anthology is designed by Alexis Mark and presents a diverse range of perspectives on the changing practices and critical functions of museums and art exhibitions with contributions by Nora Sternfeld, Yvette Mutumba, Cem A., Kim West, Giulia Bellinetti, Lucia Pietroiusti and James Voorhies.

Artistic critiques have long revealed the gendered, classed and colonial power structures embedded within art institutions. Recently, however, there has been a shift toward institutional self-critique, with even major museums increasingly addressing their practices and narratives in public dialogue with audiences. By integrating historical context with contemporary analysis, Symbolic Machines explores these transformations and shows how museums and exhibitions can actively engage with societal change.

The book is published by Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Aarhus University Press and Yale University Press. The book is the first volume in the LOUISIANA RESEARCH series. 

There will be a short introduction to the book by the editors followed by bubbles. Everyone is welcome!

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PRACTICAL INFO

Book launch: ‘Symbolic Machines – Institutional Transformation Through Exhibitions’

19 June 2025
05.00 PM – 07.00 PM  

Art Hub Copenhagen
Thoravej 29
2400 Copenhagen NV The event is free to attend but requires that you book a ticket through Billetto.