Edgar Wind and Modern Art: In Defence of Marginal Anarchy

Edgar Winds' book, "Edgar Wind and Modern Art," presents the first comprehensive study of his critique of modern art. It reveals the extent and seriousness of his thinking about modern art, which was bound up with theories about art and knowledge that he had developed during the 1920s and 30s. The book discusses his friendships with three significant artists and reveals the existence of an alternative to the prevailing formalist approach to modern art, based on the enduring importance of the symbol.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 272 pages
\n Publication date: 28 January 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
\n

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the critique of modern art by philosopher and art historian Edgar Wind. As the first student of Erwin Panofsky and a close associate of Aby Warburg, Wind stood out among the "Warburgians" for his unwavering interest in modern art, coupled with his unwavering support for contemporary artists. This passion culminated in his highly regarded and influential book, "Art and Anarchy" (1963), which marked a departure from his usual scholarly pursuits in Renaissance art iconography.

Edgar Wind and Modern Art: Unveiling the Depth of Wind's Thinking is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the breadth and depth of Wind's thoughts on modern art. Through extensive archival research and the presentation of previously unpublished lectures, the book unveils the intricate connections between Wind's ideas and the theories about art and knowledge that he developed during the 1920s and 1930s.

The book contextualizes Wind's ideas within a vibrant international cultural milieu, encompassing some of the most influential artists and thinkers of the twentieth century. In particular, it delves into his close friendships with three significant artists: Pavel Tchelitchew, Ben Shahn, and R. B. Kitaj. Through these personal relationships, the book reveals the existence of an alternative to the prevailing formalist approach of Alfred Barr and Clement Greenberg to modern art. This alternative emphasizes the enduring significance of symbols in shaping artistic expression.

Edgar Wind and Modern Art is a seminal work that not only provides a deep understanding of Wind's critique of modern art but also offers valuable insights into the broader cultural landscape of the twentieth century. It serves as a testament to Wind's intellectual prowess and his unwavering commitment to promoting the appreciation and understanding of modern art. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of art, philosophy, and cultural studies.

\n Weight: 740g\n
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 23 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781501341755\n \n