Difference Between Cult Value And Exhibition Value

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When differentiating cult value and exhibition value mentioned by Walter Benjamin (1936: ) it is important to unpack each of these terms. Benjamin (1936: ) explains that art was originally seen as “magical”. Benjamin (1936: ) explains that cult value originates from an object of ceremony that holds a magical and spiritual power. Benjamin (1936: ) goes on to explain that today, cult value “would seem to demand that the work of art remain hidden”. In contrast to this idea of art remaining hidden in cult value, exhibition value contras this notion with mobility and being on public display (Benjamin, 1936: ). Benjamin (1936: ) goes on to explain that this value is based upon an image that is made for the purpose of being exhibited. The shift from cult value to an object of exhibition value affects how these objects are seen by the masses (Benjamin, 1936: ). …show more content…

Benjamin (1936: ) explains that this relationship results in the loss of “aura” of authenticity in reproduced

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