Komar and Melamid: A Lesson in History

Komar and Melamid were Russian-Americans who used humor and irony to critique Soviet officialdom. The book explores their journey from working under an oppressive regime to finding new subjects in the US for their provocative critique, with new scholarship and full-color illustrations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2023
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

Introduction:
Komar and Melamid, two Russian-American artists, are widely recognized as some of the most influential figures in the history of conceptual art. Their unique blend of humor and irony allowed them to effectively critique the Soviet officialdom, a subject that was often taboo in their homeland. This book aims to explore their journey from working under an oppressive regime to finding new subjects in the United States for their provocative critique.

The Birth of Sots Art:
In the early 1970s, a group of artists in the Soviet Union began to experiment with a new form of art that was both political and personal. This movement, known as Sots Art, was born out of a desire to challenge the strict censorship and propaganda that were prevalent in the country. Komar and Melamid were among the leading figures of this movement, and their work quickly gained recognition both within the Soviet Union and internationally.

Most Wanted Paintings:
One of the most iconic projects of Komar and Melamid was their Most Wanted Paintings project. This project was based on market research, which revealed that certain images and symbols were considered taboo in the Soviet Union. The artists then created a series of paintings that depicted these taboo subjects in a satirical and ironic way, using humor to challenge the authority of the state.

Transition to the US:
In the late 1970s, Komar and Melamid decided to leave the Soviet Union and move to the United States. This decision was driven by a desire for greater artistic freedom and a more open society. In the US, they continued to create provocative and ironic art, often focusing on social and political issues.

Legacy:
Komar and Melamid's legacy is profound. Their use of humor and irony to critique the Soviet officialdom was a powerful and effective way of challenging the status quo. Their work continues to inspire artists and activists around the world, and their influence can be seen in the current political climate.

Conclusion:
Komar and Melamid's journey from working under an oppressive regime to finding new subjects in the US for their provocative critique is a testament to the power of art to challenge authority. Their work continues to resonate with audiences today, and their legacy will be remembered for generations to come.

Weight: 1660g
Dimension: 279 x 229 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777441092