Artmaking in the Age of Global Capitalism: Visual Practices, Philosophy, Politics

Political art today encompasses a range of strategies used by visual artists and filmmakers to critique the social and economic conditions shaping our historical moment. It should consider the impact of the artwork at the point of reception, the methods adopted by the artists, and the relationships they engender with communities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Political art has evolved significantly in recent years, with visual artists and filmmakers using a range of strategies to critique the social and economic conditions shaping our historical moment. Jan Bryant, in her book "Political Art Today," explores the ways in which these artists are using their work to positively re-imagine the world.

Bryant argues that an effective contemporary political-aesthetics encompasses more than just the analysis of a work's conceptual or aesthetic reality. It should also consider the impact that the artwork has at the point of reception, the methods adopted by the artists, and the relationships they engender with communities.

One of the key strategies that Bryant identifies is the use of irony and humor. Visual artists and filmmakers are using humor to subvert dominant narratives and challenge the status quo. This can be seen in the work of artists such as Banksy, who uses street art to comment on political and social issues, and in the films of directors such as Michael Moore, who use documentary style to expose the corruption and greed of corporate America.

Another strategy that Bryant identifies is the use of narrative. Visual artists and filmmakers are using narrative to tell stories that challenge the dominant narrative and offer alternative perspectives. This can be seen in the work of artists such as Ai Weiwei, who uses his art to document human rights abuses and political oppression, and in the films of directors such as Ava DuVernay, who uses documentary style to explore the experiences of marginalized communities.

Bryant also argues that an effective contemporary political-aesthetics should consider the role of technology in shaping our understanding of the world. Visual artists and filmmakers are using technology to create new forms of expression and to challenge the dominant narrative. This can be seen in the work of artists such as Banksy, who uses street art to create interactive installations that engage with the public, and in the films of directors such as Steven Soderbergh, who uses digital technology to create films that explore the intersection of technology and politics.

In conclusion, political art has evolved significantly in recent years, with visual artists and filmmakers using a range of strategies to critique the social and economic conditions shaping our historical moment. Jan Bryant's book "Political Art Today" provides a comprehensive analysis of the ways in which these artists are using their work to positively re-imagine the world. By using irony and humor, narrative, and technology, these artists are challenging the dominant narrative and offering alternative perspectives. As we continue to navigate the complex social and political landscape of our time, it is important to recognize the role that political art plays in shaping our understanding of the world and in promoting social change.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 154 x 232 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474456951