This is Tomorrow: Twentieth-century Britain and its Artists

In "This is Tomorrow," Michael Bird explores the lives of British artists from the late-19th century to the turn of the millennium, tracing the impact of change and adaptation on their work. He highlights the contributions of artists such as Whistler, Eliasson, and female and artists of color, and how global wars, persecution, educational reforms, social change, and the mass media shaped their careers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

In his captivating book, "This is Tomorrow," Michael Bird delves into a vibrant and captivating history, spanning from the late-19th century to the present day. Through the lens of artists who lived and worked in the ever-evolving Britain, Bird explores the intricate tapestry of change and adaptation that shaped the nation's collective consciousness. He delves deep into the lives of these remarkable individuals, going beyond their individual careers and historical moments to weave together interconnected currents of change that flowed through London, Glasgow, Leeds, Cornwall, the Caribbean, New York, Moscow, and Berlin.

From the American James McNeill Whistler's bold defense of his new and revolutionary art against the British art establishment in the late-19th century to the Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson's awe-inspiring melting icebergs in London, Bird traces the lives of artists who have recorded, questioned, and defined our times.

At the heart of this original work lies a series of displacement waves brought about by global wars and persecution, which, in turn, brought fresh ideas and new perspectives to the British Isles. Educational reforms opened up new avenues for young people from working-class backgrounds, while social change movements paved the way for the emergence of female artists and artists of color. Moreover, the rise of the mass media shaped modern modes of communication and culture, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape.

Through his meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Bird paints a panoramic account of Britain and its artists across the twentieth century. He skillfully teases out the ebbs and flows of these historical currents, providing a rich and nuanced understanding of the artistic landscape and the forces that have shaped it. "This is Tomorrow" is a testament to Bird's passion for art and his ability to bring history to life in a way that is both accessible and engaging. It is a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, and the ever-changing world we live in.

Weight: 984g
Dimension: 168 x 241 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500024430