Contemporary Art and the Canon: Emulation, Pastiche, Parody

About the Class

Since its inception, modern art has rejected uninspired imitation. To mimic another artist’s style meant belonging to a specific school, with the Ecole des Beaux-Arts being the prime—and most derided—example. However, even the artists who were hungriest for originality and individuality had an equally strong counter-desire: to be accepted into museums and, thus, secure their place in art history. This course looks at the complex relationship that modern artists have with the art of the past. Through a series of case studies featuring artists like Picasso and Duchamp, as well as contemporary figures like like Cecily Brown, we will examine the various ways in which artists have sought to distance themselves from earlier art while positioning themselves as its successors.

The class is online-only. More about online classes.

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Barnes classes will:

• Sharpen your observational and critical thinking skills.
• Improve your ability to communicate about art.
• Deepen your appreciation for cultures and histories outside your own.

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