OSHER 976 - Modern Art and Social Change: Understanding Art from 1940-1990

Modern Art can seem baffling, often appearing to require little skill or to hold little meaning. However, the outward appearance of such artworks belies their complex emotional, philosophical and social content. This course will guide students through an exploration of how art from the second half of the 20th century responded to cultural change by perpetually challenging the definitions of art. Topics covered will include Abstract Expressionism and the Cold War; Pop Art and consumer culture; Conceptualism and the Vietnam War; Postmodernism and the Reagan presidency; and finally, a special unit on Utah Land Art.