Self-Institutionalization Reader

A rigorous yet subversive glossary of the verbal frameworks of institutions

Initiated by the Office for Joint Administrative Intelligence (O.J.A.I.), Self-Institutionalization Reader investigates artist offices, bureaus, departments, ministries, societies, centers and other explicitly institutional invocations. It examines the act of self-institution as both a conceptual and operational approach, focusing on how these practices structure themselves and engage with their contexts. The Terminology Audit found within this reader reveals language and jargon unique to each practice. Meanwhile, the case studies from researchers currently active in the field represent a broad range of approaches, including research-based, performance-driven, pragmatic, materially motivated, counter-institutional, esoteric and absurd facsimiles of institutionhood. Contributors include: Bureau of Melodramatic Research (BMR), Department of Ultimology, Self Luminous Society, Temporary Information Center, The Letter Space Department (TLSD).