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The Shock of the New summary
Brief summary
The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes is a captivating exploration of the revolutionary changes in art and design during the 20th century. From the birth of modernism to the rise of postmodernism, Hughes delves into the cultural and historical context of each movement.
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Table of Contents
The Shock of the New
Summary of key ideas
The Artistic Revolution
In The Shock of the New, Robert Hughes takes us on a whirlwind tour of the development of modern art. He starts with the revolutionary movements of the early 20th century, such as Cubism and Fauvism, which challenged traditional artistic norms and sought to capture the essence of the modern age. Hughes discusses the works of artists like Picasso, Matisse, and Duchamp, and how their radical ideas shook the art world.
He then moves on to the Russian avant-garde, exploring the impact of the Bolshevik Revolution on art. Hughes highlights the Constructivist movement, which sought to integrate art into everyday life and architecture. He also discusses the work of abstract artists like Kandinsky and Malevich, who aimed to express the spiritual in art.
The Interwar Years
The middle section of The Shock of the New delves into the interwar years, a time of great experimentation and turmoil. Hughes explores the Dada movement, which emerged as a response to the horrors of World War I, and its use of absurdity and chance in art. He also discusses Surrealism and its exploration of the unconscious mind, focusing on artists like Salvador Dalí and René Magritte.
Furthermore, Hughes examines how the rise of fascism in Europe influenced art. He discusses the Nazi condemnation of 'degenerate art', the exile of artists like Max Ernst and Marcel Duchamp, and the impact of the Spanish Civil War on artists such as Picasso. He also looks at the American response to these events, discussing the emergence of Abstract Expressionism.
The Post-War Period
In the third part of The Shock of the New, Hughes examines the aftermath of World War II and the Cold War era. He discusses the rise of Abstract Expressionism, a movement that embraced spontaneity and the subconscious, with artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning at the forefront. Hughes also explores the work of European artists who were affected by the war, such as the existentialist paintings of Alberto Giacometti.
As the 20th century progresses, Hughes discusses the increasing influence of consumer culture and mass media on art. He examines Pop Art, a movement that sought to blur the boundaries between high and low art, and the work of artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. He also looks at the rise of Minimalism, which emphasized simplicity and the use of industrial materials.
The Late 20th Century and Beyond
In the final section of The Shock of the New, Hughes discusses the diverse artistic movements of the late 20th century and beyond. He examines the impact of feminism on art, discussing the work of artists like Judy Chicago and Cindy Sherman. Hughes also explores the rise of installation art and environmental art, which aimed to engage with social and political issues.
Furthermore, Hughes discusses the impact of technology on art, including the rise of digital art and the use of new media. He also examines the global nature of contemporary art, discussing artists from non-Western cultures and the impact of globalization. In conclusion, The Shock of the New paints a vivid picture of the ever-evolving landscape of modern art.
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What is The Shock of the New about?
The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes takes readers on a journey through the world of modern art. From the birth of abstraction to the rise of contemporary art, Hughes explores the revolutionary changes that took place in the art world and the impact they had on society. With insightful analysis and captivating storytelling, this book challenges our perceptions and offers a deeper understanding of the power and significance of modern art.
The Shock of the New Review
The Shock of the New (1980) explores the evolution of art in the modern world, making it a fascinating read for art enthusiasts. Here's why this book stands out:
- Presenting a comprehensive overview of art movements from the 19th century to the present day, it provides valuable insights into the development of contemporary art.
- Robert Hughes offers provocative critiques of artworks and artists, sparking thought-provoking discussions on the nature and purpose of art in society.
- The book's engaging narrative style and vivid descriptions bring the art world to life, ensuring that readers are captivated by every page.
Who should read The Shock of the New?
Art enthusiasts who want to understand the evolution of modern art
Students or educators looking for a comprehensive overview of 20th century art movements
Curious individuals who want to explore the impact of technology and society on artistic expression
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The Shock of the New FAQs
What is the main message of The Shock of the New?
The book explores the impact of modern art on society and challenges traditional views.
How long does it take to read The Shock of the New?
Reading time varies. The Blinkist summary can be read in no time compared to the full book.
Is The Shock of the New a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Shock of the New offers a fresh perspective on art history, making it a valuable read for art enthusiasts.
Who is the author of The Shock of the New?
The author of The Shock of the New is Robert Hughes.
What to read after The Shock of the New?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Shock of the New, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
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- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
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