Art and Posthistory: Conversations on the End of Aesthetics

Arthur C. Danto and Demetrio Paparoni had extensive conversations about contemporary art, covering topics such as pop art, minimalism, abstraction, and appropriationism. Their discussions centered around posthistory and the end of aesthetics, which continue to shape questions about contemporary art. Art and Posthistory presents these dialogues and correspondence, allowing readers to experience Danto's intellectual excitement and explore his ideas. The book includes contributions from artists and philosophers, enlivening the discussion and adding different perspectives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 09 August 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Arthur C. Danto, a renowned art critic and philosopher, engaged in extensive conversations with Demetrio Paparoni, a prominent Italian critic, from the 1990s until shortly before his passing. Their discussions spanned a wide array of topics, encompassing American pop art, minimalism, abstraction, and appropriationism. However, their central themes—posthistory and the end of aesthetics—remained constant throughout their exchanges, shaping ongoing inquiries into the meaning and future of contemporary art.

Art and Posthistory presents these captivating dialogues and correspondence, serving as a testament to the enduring significance of Danto's ideas. It allows readers to immerse themselves in Danto's intellectual prowess, engaging in freewheeling yet scholarly speculation. Danto and Paparoni explore the works of artists like Andy Warhol, Marcel Duchamp, Franz Kline, Sean Scully, Clement Greenberg, Cindy Sherman, and Wang Guangyi, offering insightful critiques of individual pieces and broader observations on artistic trends. Occasionally, the conversation is enriched by the participation of Mimmo Paladino, an artist, and Mario Perniola, a philosopher, who add their unique perspectives to the discourse.

Additionally, the book includes an introductory essay by Paparoni that offers a comprehensive analysis of Danto's thought, highlighting their areas of disagreement as well as the insights they gained from each other. This essay provides a valuable framework for understanding Danto's philosophical approach to art and its enduring impact on the field.

In conclusion, Art and Posthistory offers a captivating glimpse into the intellectual world of Arthur C. Danto and Demetrio Paparoni. Through their discussions and correspondence, readers are invited to explore the core concepts of posthistory and the end of aesthetics, which continue to shape our understanding of contemporary art. This book provides a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and anyone interested in the evolution of artistic thought.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 137 x 213 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231204774