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What Are You Looking At? summary
Brief summary
What Are You Looking At? by Will Gompertz is a captivating exploration of modern art. Gompertz delves into the stories behind iconic works, demystifying the art world and offering insightful commentary on its most significant pieces.
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What Are You Looking At?
Summary of key ideas
The Journey of Art Appreciation
In What Are You Looking At? Will Gompertz takes us on a fascinating journey through the world of modern art, exploring its history, its key players, and its most significant works. Gompertz, the former director of the Tate Gallery in London, explains that the title of the book is a question he often encounters from people viewing modern art. He sees this as a sign of a huge gap in understanding and appreciation of contemporary art and aims to bridge it.
Gompertz starts our journey by introducing us to the Impressionists, who were the first to break away from traditional art forms and challenge the established norms. He explains how their innovative approach paved the way for the subsequent modern art movements, such as Cubism, Futurism, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism.
Understanding Modern Art
As we delve deeper into the book, Gompertz helps us understand and appreciate the works of some of the most influential modern artists. He provides insights into their lives, their inspirations, and the social and political contexts that influenced their art. We get to know the likes of Picasso, Duchamp, Dali, Pollock, and Warhol, and their groundbreaking contributions to the world of art.
The book also explores the concept of art itself. Gompertz discusses the role of the artist as an individual and the different ways of looking at and interpreting art. He emphasizes that art is not just about aesthetics, but also about ideas, emotions, and the human experience. He encourages us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the deeper meanings and messages embedded in modern art.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout What Are You Looking At?, Gompertz addresses some of the controversies and challenges faced by modern art. He discusses the role of art critics and their influence, the impact of commercialization on art, and the changing dynamics of the art world. Gompertz also highlights some of the most controversial artworks, such as Marcel Duchamp's 'Fountain' and Damien Hirst's preserved animals, shedding light on the debates they sparked.
He argues that controversy is an integral part of modern art, as it challenges our perceptions and stimulates discussions. Gompertz believes that art should provoke, challenge, and even shock us, as this is how it remains relevant and continues to evolve.
Applying Art Knowledge
In the latter part of the book, Gompertz encourages us to apply the knowledge gained from our art journey to our own lives. He believes that the principles of modern art can be applied to various aspects of our personal and professional lives, such as problem-solving, creativity, and innovation. He emphasizes the importance of thinking differently and embracing change, just as the modern artists did.
In conclusion, What Are You Looking At? serves as an insightful guide to understanding and appreciating modern art. Gompertz's engaging narrative, coupled with his deep knowledge and passion for art, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the world of contemporary art.
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What is What Are You Looking At? about?
What Are You Looking At? by Will Gompertz explores the fascinating world of modern art and challenges our perceptions of what art is. With wit and insight, Gompertz delves into the stories behind iconic artworks and the artists who created them, helping readers to better understand and appreciate the art that surrounds us.
What Are You Looking At? Review
What Are You Looking At? (2012) explores modern art through an accessible lens, making it a valuable read for both art enthusiasts and novices alike. Here's why this book stands out:
- It breaks down complex art theories into understandable concepts, allowing readers to appreciate and interpret modern artworks with ease.
- The book delves into the stories behind famous art pieces, providing historical context and enriching the reader's understanding of the art world.
- With its entertaining anecdotes and witty commentary, the book ensures that learning about art remains engaging and far from dull.
Who should read What Are You Looking At??
Art enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of modern and contemporary art
Individuals who are curious about the stories and meanings behind famous artworks
People who enjoy engaging and accessible explanations of complex topics
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What Are You Looking At? FAQs
What is the main message of What Are You Looking At?
The main message is the power of art to challenge perspectives and provoke new ways of thinking.
How long does it take to read What Are You Looking At?
The reading time varies, but typically a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in around 15 minutes.
Is What Are You Looking At a good book? Is it worth reading?
What Are You Looking At is worth reading for its insightful take on art's impact on society and individuals.
Who is the author of What Are You Looking At?
The author of What Are You Looking At is Will Gompertz.
What to read after What Are You Looking At??
If you're wondering what to read next after What Are You Looking At?, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
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- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda