Gerhard Richter, Individualism, and Belonging in West Germany

This book explores how Gerhard Richter (b. 1932) navigated West Germanys increasing individualism between the 1960s and 1990s, seeking security in traditional modes of bourgeois collectivity like the family, religion, painting, and the democratic capitalist state. It reevaluates his art in relation to his struggles with belonging in a highly individualised society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the artistic journey of Gerhard Richter (b. 1932), exploring his profound quest for belonging amidst the evolving landscape of West German society between the 1960s and the 1990s. Fleeing the stifling constraints of socialist collectivism in East Germany, Richter sought refuge in the West, where his diverse and prolific output testified to the newfound freedom he experienced under capitalism. However, his artistic pursuits also revealed his ongoing struggle to find a sense of belonging in a highly individualistic society, a challenge that resonated with many others. While sociologists have extensively examined the dynamics of increasing individualism, this book proposes a novel framework for understanding broader trends in recent German art history. Instead of critiquing this development from a socialist perspective or experimenting with new communal structures, Richter sought solace and security in traditional modes of bourgeois collectivity, such as the family, religion, painting, and the democratic capitalist state.

This book holds immense appeal to scholars engaged in the fields of art history, German history, culture, and politics. It offers a fresh perspective on the artistic landscape of a pivotal period, shedding light on Richter's creative process and his profound search for identity in a changing world. Through meticulous research and analysis, the book provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between individualism, society, and art, offering a rich tapestry of ideas for further exploration.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into the rich and complex world of Gerhard Richter's art and his profound exploration of the human condition. It offers a thought-provoking and insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities of belonging in a rapidly evolving society, and will undoubtedly inspire and engage readers for years to come.

Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032209777