Learning through Ancient Art and Experiencing Emotions with Contemporary Art: Comparing Visits in Two Different Museums

Abstract

The aim of the present research was to explore possible differences between visitor experiences in two different kinds of art museums according to the art styles of the collections hosted: the Museum Borghese of Rome (ancient art) and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection of Venice (contemporary art). Two questionnaires were administered to 500 Italian participants before and after their visit to one of the museums. Questions (Likert scales and multiple choice) assessed how much visitors liked and were satisfied with the museum and their visit, and the motivations, expectations and preference that drive people to visit museums of ancient versus contemporary art. Results show that people who visit the Guggenheim Museum have higher socio-economic status (education and profession) and visit museums more frequently than those who attend the Borghese Museum. Additionally, educational level relates to the enjoyment of the visit and to the nature of the aesthetic experience; visit conduction by Borghese visitors was driven by the intent of understanding and knowing, while those who attended the Guggenheim took an emotional approach to their experience.