Off the Wall - American Art to Wear

Art to wear, also known as wearable art, was a discrete American movement in the late 1960s and 1970s, reflecting cultural, political, social, and spiritual concerns. This first publication explores the movement's origins and lasting significance, featuring one-of-a-kind work by over 75 artists and an introduction to its development by linking it to other arts of the period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 05 November 2019
Publisher: Yale University Press

This groundbreaking book explores the fascinating origins and enduring significance of a dynamic, subversive, and interactive art form known as art to wear, also referred to as wearable art. As the first publication to consider this unique American movement as a discrete entity, it delves into the cultural, political, social, and spiritual concerns of a generation that emerged in the late 1960s and 1970s. These artists, primarily trained in the fine arts, embraced unconventional forms, materials, and techniques to create works that utilized the body as an armature. Collectively, their innovative approaches have had a profound yet underappreciated impact on art-making and education.

Rich archival and newly commissioned photography showcase one-of-a-kind creations by over 75 artists, including renowned figures such as Gaza Bowen, Jean Cacicedo, Marian Clayden, Ben Compton, Marika Contompasis, Nicki Hitz Edson, Tim Harding, Sharron Hedges, Ana Lisa Hedstrom, Nina Vivian Huryn, Whitney Kent, Ina Kozel, Susanna Lewis, Janet Lipkin, K. Lee Manuel, Linda Mendelson, Norma Minkowitz, Anna VA Polesny, Debra Rapoport, Mario Rivoli, Dina Knapp, Joan Steiner, Arlene Stimmel, Jamie Summers, JoEllen Trilling, and Katherine Westphal.

Off the Wall offers a comprehensive introduction to art to wear between 1967 and 1997, shedding light on its historical roots by tracing its connections to various artistic movements of the time, including fiber art and painting. This insightful book is published in association with the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where an exhibition dedicated to this captivating art form will be held from November 8, 2019, to May 17, 2020.

Through its comprehensive exploration, Off the Wall provides a deeper understanding of art to wear as a movement that pushed boundaries, challenged conventions, and fostered a sense of self-expression and empowerment. It serves as a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and students alike, shedding light on the enduring legacy of this dynamic art form and its potential for future innovation.

Weight: 1162g
Dimension: 260 x 220 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780876332917