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The Shock of the New summary
Brief summary
The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes provides a compelling exploration of the revolutionary changes in art and architecture in the 20th century. It offers a thought-provoking analysis of the impact of modernism on society.
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The Shock of the New
Summary of key ideas
Artistic Revolution
In The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes, we embark on a journey through the revolution of modern art. The book begins with the late 19th century, a time when artists were beginning to question the traditional forms and techniques of art. This period saw the emergence of Impressionism, a movement that sought to capture the fleeting moments of everyday life and the transient effects of light.
Following this, we delve into Post-Impressionism, a movement characterized by artists such as Van Gogh and Gauguin, who pushed the boundaries of color and form to express their inner emotions. Hughes masterfully explains how these artists paved the way for the radical changes that would define the 20th century art scene.
The Rise of Modernism
The book then takes us through the birth of modernism, a movement that rejected the conventional representation of reality in favor of abstraction and a focus on the inner self. We explore the works of artists like Picasso and Braque, who developed Cubism, a style that shattered traditional perspectives and reassembled them in fragmented form.
From there, we move into the Dada movement, which rejected all norms and standards, and Surrealism, which explored the realm of the unconscious mind. Hughes paints a vivid picture of the chaos and innovation that defined this era, as artists sought new ways to express their experiences in the wake of World War I.
The New World and its Art
Continuing our journey in The Shock of the New, we explore the rise of American art and its growing influence on the global stage. Hughes discusses the abstract expressionism movement, centered in New York City, which emphasized spontaneous, automatic forms of expression. We learn about artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning, who created large-scale, energetic paintings that were a direct reflection of their emotional states.
As we move further into the 20th century, we witness the emergence of Pop Art, a movement that celebrated the mundane and mass-produced, often through the use of bold colors and recognizable imagery. We also get a glimpse into the world of Minimalism, characterized by its use of simple, geometric forms and industrial materials.
Art in the Age of Technology
As we approach the end of our journey, Hughes discusses the impact of technology on art. He explores the rise of video, installation, and performance art, mediums that reflect the increasingly complex and interconnected world in which we live. The book concludes with a reflection on the diverse and often contradictory nature of contemporary art.
In The Shock of the New, Robert Hughes provides us with a comprehensive and insightful overview of the major movements and artists that have shaped modern art. His vivid descriptions and deep understanding of the subject make this book a must-read for anyone interested in art history and the evolution of creativity.
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What is The Shock of the New about?
The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes explores the development of modern art and its impact on society. With a critical and engaging style, the book delves into the revolutionary changes brought about by artists such as Picasso, Duchamp, and Warhol, and examines the cultural and historical context in which their work emerged.
The Shock of the New Review
The Shock of the New (1980) explores the impact of modern art on the cultural landscape. Here's why this book is a standout:
- It delves deep into the evolution of art forms, tracing how artists have responded to the tumultuous changes of the 20th century.
- With analytical precision, it highlights the interplay between art and society, revealing how art reflects and shapes the world around us.
- Through vivid descriptions and insightful commentary, the book successfully captures the electric, dynamic spirit of modern art, ensuring a captivating read that is anything but dull.
Who should read The Shock of the New?
Art enthusiasts who want to understand the evolution of modern art
Students and educators studying art history or visual culture
Curious individuals looking to expand their knowledge and appreciation of contemporary art
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The Shock of the New FAQs
What is the main message of The Shock of the New?
The main message of The Shock of the New is the impact of modern art on society.
How long does it take to read The Shock of the New?
Reading The Shock of the New takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Shock of the New a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Shock of the New is worth reading for its insights on art evolution. It sparks critical thinking.
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
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
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