Outsider Art: Art Brut and its Affinities

Outsider Art is a comprehensive introduction to the art produced outside the mainstream of modern art by self-taught, untrained visionaries, spiritualists, recluses, folk artists, psychiatric patients, prisoners, and others beyond the imposed margins of society and the art market. This new edition has been revised with a greater focus on global Outsider art and includes more recent talents to the field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 06 October 2022
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

An extensively revised and updated version of this comprehensive introduction to outsider art, distinguished by its broader international perspective and inclusion of global developments since 2000.

Outsider Art encompasses the artistic creations of individuals who are self-taught, untrained, and often marginalized by society and the art market. These visionaries include spiritualists, recluses, folk artists, psychiatric patients, prisoners, and others who operate outside the confines of mainstream art. The term "Outsider Art" was coined by Roger Cardinal in 1972, and it draws its name from Jean Dubuffet's concept of "Art Brut," which translates to "raw art" or "uncooked by culture."

In this comprehensive guide, Colin Rhodes delves into the history and reception of Outsider Art, initially championed by Dubuffet and the Surrealists, and now gaining widespread appreciation among a broader public. Rhodes offers fresh insights into the achievements of both well-known figures and emerging artists, as well as the emergence of specialized studios that have contributed to the evolving relationship between outsider art and the contemporary mainstream art world.

The individuals featured in this book, such as spirit-guided Madge Gill, schizophrenic Adolf Wolfli, and Rosemarie Koczÿs, express their trauma and visions through passionate and obsessive pictorial expressions. Their artwork, now illustrated in full color, showcases a diverse range of styles and techniques, reflecting the unique perspectives and artistic journeys of these outsider artists.

This new edition of the book has undergone substantial revision, with a greater emphasis on global Outsider Art and the inclusion of more recent talents in the field. The artwork has been updated to reflect the latest developments and contributions of these artists, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in exploring the world of outsider art.

In conclusion, Outsider Art is a fascinating and dynamic field that celebrates the creativity and individuality of artists who are often overlooked by the mainstream art world. This comprehensive guide provides a comprehensive exploration of the history, reception, and achievements of outsider art, while also shedding light on the evolving relationship between this art form and the contemporary art scene. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a researcher, or simply someone seeking to discover the beauty and power of outsider art, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 151 x 211 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500204863
Edition number: New Edition