Art in Its Time: Theories and Practices of Modern Aesthetics

Rating:
Summary: superb!
Review: This provocative book asks us to think in new ways about art and society. Mattick employs a deep knowledge of art history and philosophy to show the historical nature of "art" and its problematic status in contemporary society. Without leaning on academic jargon, Mattick describes how art as a social practice - in its production, consumption, and particularly its evaluation - has been assigned a unique status in capitalism. Modern art has functioned as the bearer of higher, more spiritual pursuits than mere money-making even while it has been the preserve of moneyed and educated elites. Paradoxically, art earns its high price tag as a consequence of its disassociation from commerce. Mattick does not deplore the fact that art is increasingly seen and experienced as one commodity among others, but suggests that there is a liberatory potential involved. It should be noted that although this book never flinches from facing the often discomfiting relationship of art to social class, Mattick is passionate about art and never engages in cheap, populist-style anti-art denunciations. Highest recommendation.

Rating:
Summary: superb!
Review: This provocative book asks us to think in new ways about art and society. Mattick employs a deep knowledge of art history and philosophy to show the historical nature of "art" and its problematic status in contemporary society. Without leaning on academic jargon, Mattick describes how art as a social practice - in its production, consumption, and particularly its evaluation - has been assigned a unique status in capitalism. Modern art has functioned as the bearer of higher, more spiritual pursuits than mere money-making even while it has been the preserve of moneyed and educated elites. Paradoxically, art earns its high price tag as a consequence of its disassociation from commerce. Mattick does not deplore the fact that art is increasingly seen and experienced as one commodity among others, but suggests that there is a liberatory potential involved. It should be noted that although this book never flinches from facing the often discomfiting relationship of art to social class, Mattick is passionate about art and never engages in cheap, populist-style anti-art denunciations. Highest recommendation.