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Asking Quote by Lorna Simpson

“The only thing I can hope the viewer will get from the work is something about the structure of the work. It would be asking too much, I think, for them to get my exact intention. But if - through the construct of language, the way things are juxtaposed - there is some sort of disruption of the…” quote by Lorna Simpson
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“The only thing I can hope the viewer will get from the work is something about the structure of the work. It would be asking too much, I think, for them to get my exact intention. But if - through the construct of language, the way things are juxtaposed - there is some sort of disruption of the way you would normally go about reaching photographic images... if that is happening, that's fine.”

Lorna Simpson

About This Quote

Source Interview: Art Talk with Lorna Simpson, 2015

The work aims to reveal structural aspects rather than convey a precise personal intent, using language and juxtaposition to disrupt typical visual perception.

In simple terms: It focuses on structure, not exact meaning, using disruption to challenge viewers.

Key Takeaway

Embrace structural ambiguity and let disruption guide interpretation.

Themes

art perception structure disruption interpretation

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

reflective critical

When to use this quote

  • gallery exhibition
  • art education
  • critical discussion
  • curatorial planning

Key Concepts

semiotics visual language juxtaposition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does structural disruption affect your perception of images?
  • Can you identify moments where language reshapes visual meaning?
A Different Perspective

The viewer may still impose personal narratives, limiting the intended structural focus.

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