And so we find ourselves with one foot on the dock and one on the boat.
On one hand we are examining Modernism with it’s emotional treatment of color and form, on the otre’ Regionalism’s pushback of the very same Modernism through subject and forced perspective. One is simplified and thought provoking; the other fantastic and nostalgic. One is a vibrant, healthy, and a continuing branch of contemporary art; the other a waypoint in art history.
“What does this have to do with the price of eggs, Chumpo?”
Absolutely nothing.
Oscar Bluemner
b. 1867 d. 1938
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John Rogers Cox
b. 1915 d.1990
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The Regionalists have been accused of hating the modern world while The Modernists likewise of cheating the craft and ignoring their subjects. Of course that is all bullshit and a coffee house row. The world is a better place with both schools in it and all benefit. I will concede that the two do not hang well together and therefore must be exhibited separately.
And so we say goodby to American Regionalism. It has been a pleasant journey together. Lo, many a stone has been left unturned. If the experience moves you in that direction there is a wonderful world of Regionalists (also known as Magic Realists) to be explored, including not only painters but sculptors as well. Very likely your Statehouse and Capitol have adornments, murals, and permanent collections directly connected to a Regionalist (hence the name).
Next week we will briefly explore the impact of Modernism in advertising and then begin our one year retrospective.
(One Year?!!)
Thanks for the good times.
All Hail.
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Tuesday