Street Life (Bilingual edition): The Street in Art from Kirchner to Streuli

The street is a place for representation, self-presentation, and communication, as well as resistance and protest. It has been a subject of art since the early 20th century, with artists using it to symbolize modern life, express collective and individual longings and fears, and redefine it within the framework of ecology, sustainability, and democratic movements.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2023
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

This lavishly illustrated volume delves into the multifaceted significance of the street as an interface for diverse walks of life and groups across international positions in painting, graphics, photography, film, performance, and installation.

In the early 20th century, as industrialization and urbanization swept across the globe, the street emerged as a central subject in the art world. Artists, influenced by the Futurists and Expressionists, saw the street as a symbol of modern life, brimming with promises and contradictions. This theme continued to weave its way through art, manifesting as a social psychogram, a reflection of collective and individual desires and fears, a medium for happenings and graffiti, and even a reimagining within the context of ecology, sustainability, and democratic movements.

The street has served as a rich source of inspiration for artists throughout history, offering a glimpse into the lives and experiences of ordinary people. From the bustling streets of Paris to the bustling streets of New York, artists have captured the energy, diversity, and complexity of urban life on the street.

In the 20th century, street art emerged as a powerful form of expression, allowing artists to communicate their messages and ideas to a wider audience. Graffiti artists, in particular, have used the street as their canvas, creating intricate and colorful murals that often convey social and political commentary. Street art has also been used as a tool for activism, with artists using their work to raise awareness about social and environmental issues.

In recent years, the street has become an increasingly important platform for artists to explore the intersection of art and technology. With the rise of digital media and the internet, artists have been able to create interactive installations that engage with the public in new and innovative ways. From virtual reality experiences to augmented reality sculptures, the street has become a playground for artists to push the boundaries of what is possible in the art world.

In conclusion, the street holds a unique place in the art of the 20th and 21st centuries. It is a place for representation, self-presentation, and communication, as well as resistance and protest. This lavishly illustrated volume explores the multi-layered significance of the street as an interface for diverse walks of life and groups, highlighting its role as a symbol of modern life, a medium for expression, and a platform for innovation. As the world continues to urbanize, the street will undoubtedly continue to inspire and shape the art of the future.

Weight: 1676g
Dimension: 249 x 297 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777436975