Modern Art in the Common Culture

I personally hate modernist art theory with a passion *BUT* since there is a need to navigate this terrain, Thomas Crow's book provides an excellent overview. He cuts through the BS and explains how we got to where we are in the art world - including why art criticism seems less and less interested in any actual art. Or being understood by the general public. Difficult reading nonetheless.

Is contemporary art dead? Amidst the onslaught of all the -isms and in a life-world in which art and life seem so removed: is art dead today?Crow doesn't think so and he offers a selection of observations of specific artistic practices that illuminate the vitality of art in our culture today: yes, it still speaks and it still responds. There is still hope.There is a great reading of Warhol's "Disasters" in its social and historical context. You might just take another look at a Warhol after reading this piece. And against Peter Burger's declaration that the avant-garde is dead, Crow responds that engaged avant-garde practices still exist, if not flourish today: Bleuker and Matta Clark, to name a few. As an art historian of 18th century France, Crow proves to be a deft observer and critic of contemporary art practices. Beautiful picture plates alongside brilliantly written essays. This is art criticism and art history at its best. What is criticism? The best, I think, are the ones that appreciate and demonstrate value without the pretenses and the cliches. This book is such an effort.