Aesthetic Aspects of Unauthorised Environmental Interventions

Abstract

Through a number of examples of environmental interventions, this paper makes the claim that the unauthorised nature of some interventions is an integral part of their aesthetic quality. This does not mean that all such interventions have these qualities—only that the regulation of what can be done where and by whom could endanger the production of a rich seam of aesthetic experience, such as edginess and whimsy, and the aesthetic engagement of artists and the general public with places.

Acknowledgements

This paper was previously given at the American Society for Aesthetics Annual Meeting in Milwaukee, 2006. Support for attendance at the conference was provided by the British Academy.