Whenever I go to a museum, I search out the Photography Gallery (if they have one). Many times I come across images which leave me wondering why they are there; i.e. 36 prints, 8x10's in B&W of various grain silos. No explanation. Or, ones photographic travel log across a particular state. At times I've questioned the Curator as to why the museum has these photos in their collection, to which the answer makes me feel as though I no longer understand the English word!
There is a recent book entitled "Photography and the Art of Chance" by Robin Kelsey. I would suggest these book as a good read on the subject of why and how we (or they) interpret some of what we see here and there. I can look at Strand, White, Adams, Bresson, Atget, etc., and even Todd Hido's works and "get-it". But some of what is in galleries just leaves me plan cold.
Thoughts?
ajz
P.S. The recent video with Michael, Kevin and Brooks was excellent, and almost began to touch on on this subject,