The Arts

More about the book

Seventy years ago, the Dada movement declared, "Art is dead," yet it has thrived in unexpected ways. The twentieth century has been a hotbed of artistic rebellion and experimentation, giving rise to diverse forms of expression—from Cubism to abstract expressionism and surrealism to superrealism. This richly illustrated volume offers a sweeping overview of this dynamic century, featuring over 300 illustrations, many in full color. It encompasses all fields of fine art, vividly portraying the evolving styles influenced by money, politics, and intellectual trends. Unlike many histories, this narrative integrates both visual and performing arts, providing a holistic view of changing ideas and artistic fashions. It examines modernism in literature alongside architecture, highlighting figures like Eliot, Pound, Joyce, Corbusier, and Frank Lloyd Wright. The book also explores how artists responded to significant political events and addresses contemporary debates over public support for "obscene" art. The authors analyze social standards, the rise of influential institutions like the Museum of Modern Art, and the effects of state support and the booming art market. Covering postmodern architecture and the conceptualist rebellion, it includes capsule biographies that bring twentieth-century art to life, illustrating a fast-paced world where ideas and influences are in constant flux.