Contemporary Art, Photography, and the Politics of Citizenship

Vered Maimon's book explores the new roles and goals of a critical theory and practice of art and photography, focusing on the politics of rights and the performative formation of shared public domains. It offers a critical framework to rethink the artistic, activist, and political under globalization, examining political citizenship as a paradox where subjects struggle to acquire rights whose formulation rests on attributes they don't have.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the realm of contemporary artistic and activist projects, aiming to conceptualize the evolving roles and objectives of critical theory and practice in art and photography. Vered Maimon posits that the current landscape of artistic and activist practices has shifted its focus from the "politics of representation" and the critique of spectacle to a "politics of rights" and the performative creation of shared yet contentious public spaces. By offering a critical framework, the book encourages a reevaluation of the artistic, activist, and political dimensions in the context of globalization.

The central theme revolves around the examination of political citizenship as a paradoxical concept, where individuals strive to attain rights that are predicated on attributes they are often deemed to lack. At the same time, the universal political validity of these rights hinges on the abstraction of all forms of difference, presupposing a homogenous and inclusive society.

The book appeals to scholars engaged in art history, contemporary art, photography theory, visual culture, cultural studies, critical theory, political theory, human rights, and activism. Its insights and analysis provide valuable perspectives on the complex interplay between art, politics, and social change, contributing to a deeper understanding of the transformative potential of artistic and activist endeavors in our globalized world.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367528904