Sixties’ Dish 1970

Curator: Barry Flanagan’s ‘Sixties’ Dish’ presents us with a curious tableau of two violins nestled within what appears to be a repurposed piece of furniture. What strikes you about this piece? Editor: It’s definitely unexpected. The violins seem almost discarded, or perhaps carefully placed in this strange upholstered box. How do you interpret this work? Curator: I see a commentary on the commodification of art and culture. The violins, symbols of high art, are relegated to the status of mere objects within a domestic setting. Does the 'dish' become a container for societal expectations? Editor: That's a great way of putting it. I hadn't considered the social commentary element. Curator: It also makes me wonder about the role of the artist during the sixties. Were they also expected to fit into a certain mold, a "dish" of sorts? Editor: I never thought about it that way. Thank you for your insight. Curator: And thank you for your fresh perspective. It helps to see art through new eyes.