Invitation to the Defense of Leander Gussmann
The Institute for Art Theory and Cultural Studies at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna kindly invites you to the defense of Leander Gussmann’s dissertation project From Critique to Community: An Integrative Approach to Quality Management and Ethical Practices in Western Museums.
The Examination Panel is made up of: Axel Stockburger (chair), Diedrich Diederichsen (supervisor), and Joachim Baur (external appraiser, TU Dortmund).
Abstract
This thesis investigates the evolving role of art museums in Europe and the U.S., identifying prevalent ethical issues and proposing a novel quality management framework. The first half of the study categorizes these issues within institutional critique, artist-led activism, and popular culture contexts. The latter half tests the framework’s empirical validity through case studies involving museum resignations, negative press coverage, and Google reviews of museums. The resulting concept, encompassing the five categories—Representation & Inclusion, Systemic & Institutional Practices, Curatorial & Interpretive Practices, Public Perception & Portrayal, and Ecology & Sustainability—aims to map these into museum quality management as tools for mitigating institutional tensions. This research offers a comprehensive critique of Western museums, proposing an integrative and collaborative approach to enhancing ethical practices in the sector.
Short biography
Leander Gussmann is an art and cultural researcher based in Vienna, specializing in museum studies.
The thesis defense will be held in English and German and at the Academy at Schillerplatz in room M13a.
We are looking forward to welcoming you.