Transmodern: An Art History of Contact, 1920–60

Transmodern explores the global dimension of modern art by tracing the intersections of different modernisms in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, highlighting the significance of transcultural contacts between artists from both sides of the colonial divide. It argues for the study of non-western and Black avant-gardes within the west as counter-currents to mainstream modernism, situating transcultural art practices within the framework of anti-colonial movements and contemporary transcultural thinking.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2024
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Transmodernity is a concept that explores the interconnectedness of modern art across different regions of the world, particularly Asia, Europe, and the Americas. It seeks to understand how modern art has been shaped by the complex interplay of cultural, political, and economic forces, and how it has responded to the challenges and opportunities of globalization.

One of the key aspects of transmodernity is the recognition of the global dimension of modern art. This means that modern art is not just a product of Western culture, but is also influenced by and influenced by cultures from around the world. Transmodernity emphasizes the importance of studying non-Western avant-gardes and Black avant-gardes within the Western canon, as these movements have often been overlooked or marginalized by mainstream modernism.

Transmodernity also situates transcultural art practices from the 1920s to the 1960s within the framework of anti-colonial movements. These movements were driven by a desire to challenge colonial concepts of race and culture, and to promote a more inclusive and diverse understanding of the world. Transcultural art practices were a way for artists to express their resistance to colonialism and to promote a sense of cultural identity and belonging.

In addition to its focus on the global dimension of modern art, transmodernity also emphasizes the importance of syncretism and hybridity. These concepts are used to describe the ways in which different cultures and artistic traditions come together to create new and innovative forms of art. Syncretism refers to the mixing of different cultural elements, while hybridity refers to the combination of different artistic styles and techniques.

Transmodernity has had a significant impact on the way we understand and appreciate modern art. It has challenged the traditional Eurocentric canon of modern art, which has often been dominated by Western artists and movements. Transmodernity has also opened up new avenues for the study of modern art, particularly in the fields of cultural studies, art history, and anthropology.

Overall, transmodernity is a concept that is essential for understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of modern art. It emphasizes the importance of studying non-Western avant-gardes and Black avant-gardes within the Western canon, and it situates transcultural art practices within the framework of anti-colonial movements and contemporary transcultural thinking. By doing so, transmodernity helps us to gain a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the global dimension of modern art.

Weight: 552g
Dimension: 153 x 234 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526176585