Masterpieces Without the Director was an alternative audio guide of nineteen of the best-known masterpieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The free guide followed the same route as the Met’s official tour, but added public commentary, sound collage, and thoughts on the architecture, history, and myths of the institution. Opinions offered by celebrities, politicians, military leaders, and the general viewing audience were included.

By revising the audio guide in this way, artists Spencer Finch and Paul Ramírez-Jonas represented varied aesthetic and political positions, as well as drew parallels between the classic artwork and contemporary popular culture, calling into question the didactic modes of traditional museum audio guides.

Photograph by Alyson Pou

Spencer Finch and Paul Ramírez-Jonas

Masterpieces Without the Director

Manhattan

1991