Does Context Matter?

The context of any art showing or sale is always important. Where and when are vital aspects to viewing an art piece. It could be an art gallery that aims at selling art work, such as Wall Space. Or, it could be an art gallery aimed at simply showing art, such as the National Art Gallery. A piece at the National Art Gallery is not meant to be bought, therefore it is assumed it has been placed in exposition to generate forum. While inciting conversation and discussion about the art work, a piece in the NAG would also serve the purpose of educating people about the history of art. It is therefore a museum. A piece at Wall Space however is meant to be purchased, therefore when entering the gallery you a subconscious note is always maintained: "Do I like this painting? Enough so to buy it and put it in my living room?" Wall Space is a store. You could enter the gallery with the intention of only critiquing and discussing the art works composition but they will be, for the most part, influenced by consumeristic undertones. You may enter the National Art Gallery thinking about how a certain piece may look in your living room, but that sense of urgency to purchase something isn't there.