"The Shock of the New" Summary

Introduction

In "The Shock of the New," renowned art critic Robert Hughes takes readers on an insightful journey through the history of modern art. Through his engaging prose and deep knowledge, Hughes explores the revolutionary changes that took place in the art world during the 19th and 20th centuries. From the birth of Impressionism to the rise of abstract expressionism, Hughes delves into the stories behind the masterpieces, the artists who created them, and the societal shifts that influenced their work. This book offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking examination of the evolution of art and its impact on society.

Brief Synopsis

"The Shock of the New" is divided into eight chapters, each focusing on a specific era and artistic movement. Hughes begins by setting the stage in the late 19th century, exploring the transition from traditional academic art to the emergence of Impressionism. He then delves into the cultural and artistic shifts that occurred during the early 20th century, including the rise of Cubism and the impact of World War I on artistic expression. Moving forward, Hughes examines the birth of surrealism and the influence of technology on art, highlighting the works of artists such as Salvador Dali and Marcel Duchamp. The book concludes with an exploration of abstract expressionism and its role in post-World War II America.

Main Characters

Summary of Story Points over Chapters

Chapter 1: The Mechanical Paradise

In this chapter, Hughes explores the impact of the Industrial Revolution on art and society. He discusses the rise of photography and its influence on painters, as well as the birth of Impressionism and its focus on capturing fleeting moments of modern life.

Chapter 2: The Powers That Be

Hughes delves into the political and social contexts that shaped early 20th-century art. He examines the response of artists to the horrors of World War I and the subsequent rise of Dadaism, an artistic movement characterized by absurdity and anti-establishment sentiments.

Chapter 3: The Landscape of Pleasure

This chapter explores the changing relationship between art and nature. Hughes examines the works of artists such as Georgia O'Keeffe and Piet Mondrian, who sought to capture the essence of the natural world in their abstract compositions.

Chapter 4: Trouble in Utopia

Hughes delves into the rise of surrealism and its exploration of the subconscious. He discusses the works of artists like Salvador Dali, René Magritte, and Max Ernst, who pushed the boundaries of traditional representation through dreamlike and often unsettling imagery.

Chapter 5: The Threshold of Liberty

This chapter focuses on the impact of World War II on art and society. Hughes explores the rise of abstract expressionism, a movement characterized by spontaneous and emotionally charged works. He highlights the contributions of artists like Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko.

Chapter 6: The View from the Edge

Hughes examines the intersection of art and popular culture in the post-war era. He discusses the rise of pop art and the works of artists such as Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, who incorporated mass media and consumerism into their art.

Chapter 7: Culture as Nature

In this chapter, Hughes explores the tension between tradition and innovation in contemporary art. He discusses the works of artists like Anselm Kiefer and Jean-Michel Basquiat, who grappled with issues of identity, history, and cultural heritage.

Chapter 8: The Future That Was

The final chapter looks at the state of art in the late 20th century and beyond. Hughes reflects on the commodification of art, the rise of digital media, and the challenges faced by contemporary artists in an increasingly globalized world.

Main Events

• Birth of Impressionism and the rejection of traditional academic art
• The rise of Cubism and the deconstruction of form
• The impact of World War I on artistic expression and the birth of Dadaism
• The exploration of the subconscious through surrealism
• The emergence of abstract expressionism and its influence on post-war American art
• The integration of popular culture and consumerism in pop art
• The tension between tradition and innovation in contemporary art

Themes and Insights

"The Shock of the New" explores several key themes and offers valuable insights into the world of modern art:

1. Cultural Shifts: The book highlights how cultural, social, and political changes shape artistic movements and the evolution of art itself.
2. Breaking Traditions: Hughes emphasizes the importance of artists challenging the status quo and pushing the boundaries of artistic conventions.
3. The Power of Technology: The influence of photography, film, and other technological advancements on art is a recurring theme throughout the book. Hughes examines how artists responded to these new mediums and incorporated them into their work.
4. Art and Society: The book explores the reciprocal relationship between art and society, demonstrating how art reflects and critiques the world in which it is created.
5. The Role of the Artist: Hughes sheds light on the role of the artist as a visionary, provocateur, and cultural commentator, highlighting the impact of individual artists on the trajectory of art history.

Reader's Takeaway

"The Shock of the New" offers readers a captivating journey through the history of modern art, making it a must-read for art enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural and societal impacts of artistic movements. Hughes's engaging narrative style and deep knowledge of art history make this book both educational and enjoyable. Whether you are a seasoned art connoisseur or a newcomer to the art world, "The Shock of the New" provides valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the revolutionary changes that have shaped the art we know today.

Conclusion

In "The Shock of the New," Robert Hughes provides a comprehensive exploration of modern art, exploring the historical context, artistic movements, and key figures that have shaped the evolution of art during the 19th and 20th centuries. From Impressionism to abstract expressionism, Hughes delves into the societal shifts, cultural changes, and technological advancements that have influenced artists and their work. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power and enduring relevance of modern art.