Materials, Practices, and Politics of Shine in Modern Art and Popular Culture

Shiny things and materials are a formative element of material culture, promising luxury, social distinction, and the hope of limitless experience and excess. Since the early twentieth century, the mass production, dissemination, and popularization of synthetic materials that produce heretofore-unknown effects of shine have increased. The volume illuminates genealogical as well as systematic relationships between material phenomena of shine and cultural-philosophical concepts of appearance, illusion, distraction, and glare.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Shiny objects and materials have a captivating allure that captivates and tantalizes our senses. They play a significant role in shaping material culture, symbolizing luxury, social distinction, and the promise of endless experiences and excess. Since the early twentieth century, the mass production, dissemination, and popularization of synthetic materials that produce hitherto-unseen effects of shine have surged. At the same time, shine has been objectified as "glamor" and transformed into a symbol of performative self-empowerment.

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate genealogical and systematic connections between material phenomena of shine and cultural-philosophical concepts such as appearance, illusion, distraction, and glare. By bringing together renowned scholars from diverse disciplines, it sheds light on the multifaceted aspects of this captivating phenomenon.

The first chapter explores the historical and cultural significance of shine, tracing its evolution from ancient times to the present. It examines how shiny objects have been used to convey power, status, and religious significance, and how they have been incorporated into various artistic and cultural practices. The chapter also discusses the psychological effects of shine, such as the way it can evoke feelings of excitement, awe, and desire.

The second chapter examines the material properties of shine, exploring the science behind the optical phenomena that create it. It discusses the different types of shine, including specular, diffuse, and reflection, and how they are produced by surfaces, materials, and light. The chapter also explores the ways in which shine can be manipulated and enhanced through surface treatments, such as polishing, coating, and etching.

The third chapter explores the cultural-philosophical implications of shine. It examines how shine is perceived and interpreted in different cultures and societies, and how it is associated with notions of beauty, value, and identity. The chapter also discusses the ways in which shine can be used as a tool for distraction, manipulation, and control, and how it can be subverted and challenged.

The fourth chapter examines the role of shine in contemporary art and design. It explores how artists and designers use shine to create visually arresting and immersive experiences, and how they use it to challenge traditional notions of beauty and value. The chapter also discusses the ways in which shine can be used to create sustainable and ethical designs, and how it can be integrated into everyday objects and spaces.

The fifth chapter examines the ethical and environmental implications of shine. It explores how the production and consumption of shiny materials contribute to environmental degradation and resource depletion, and how we can mitigate these impacts. The chapter also discusses the ways in which shine can be used as a tool for promoting sustainability and social responsibility, and how it can be incorporated into sustainable design practices.

The final chapter summarizes the key findings of the volume and offers recommendations for future research and practice. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need to consider the complex relationships between material phenomena, cultural-philosophical concepts, and social and environmental issues.

In conclusion, this volume provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the phenomenon of shine. It sheds light on the historical, material, cultural, and philosophical dimensions of this captivating phenomenon, and offers valuable insights into its implications for contemporary society. By bringing together renowned scholars from various disciplines, it contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the aesthetics, ethics, and sustainability of shine.

Weight: 702g
Dimension: 161 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350192898