Republics and Empires: Italian and American Art in Transnational Perspective, 1840-1970

The book explores the transnational significance of Italy to American art and visual culture, revealing the complexity of the visual discourses that bound two relatively new nations together. It also highlights a rich body of contemporary research by Italian and American scholars that moves beyond a discussion of influence as a one-way directive towards a deeper understanding of cultural transactions.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 296 pages
\n Publication date: 17 August 2021
\n Publisher: Manchester University Press
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The book explores the multifaceted relationship between Italy and the United States, delving into the profound impact of Italy on American art and visual culture, as well as the reciprocal influence of the United States on Italian art and popular culture. Spanning from the Risorgimento to the Cold War, it uncovers the intricate web of visual discourses that bound these two relatively new nations together. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive examination of literary and critical texts that shed light on the evolving cultural exchange between Italy and the United States. While American art history has traditionally emphasized the connections with France, Britain, and Germany, this book highlights a wealth of contemporary research by Italian and American scholars that goes beyond a simplistic notion of influence and delves into the intricate cultural transactions that shaped the artistic expression of both nations.

The book offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, drawing on a range of disciplines such as art history, cultural studies, literature, and history. It examines the ways in which Italy's rich artistic heritage, historical events, and cultural traditions have influenced American artists and designers, while also exploring how American cultural influences have shaped Italian art and popular culture.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of migration and cultural exchange in shaping the relationship between Italy and the United States. It explores how Italian artists and intellectuals have migrated to the United States, bringing with them their unique perspectives and artistic traditions. These migrations have not only enriched American art and culture but have also contributed to the development of a vibrant Italian-American community.

Another important aspect of the book is the impact of technology and media on the cultural relationship between Italy and the United States. It examines how the rise of digital technology, social media, and the internet has facilitated the exchange of ideas and cultural products between the two nations, allowing for a more seamless and dynamic relationship.

The book also highlights the significance of cultural institutions and organizations in promoting the exchange of ideas and cultural products between Italy and the United States. It examines the role of museums, galleries, art festivals, and cultural centers in fostering cultural understanding and promoting artistic collaboration.

In conclusion, Republics and Empires provides a valuable contribution to the study of the Italy-United States relationship, offering a transnational perspective on the significance of Italy to American art and visual culture. It sheds light on the complex web of visual discourses, literary and critical texts, and cultural transactions that have shaped the artistic expression of both nations. By exploring the role of migration, technology, and cultural institutions, the book offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the multifaceted relationship between Italy and the United States.

\n Weight: 724g\n
Dimension: 177 x 246 x 30 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526154620\n \n