Under blue cup by Rosalind E Krauss.

'Under Blue Cup' is a collection of articles/essays by Rosalind E. Krauss, an art critic and historian, exploring different aspects of modern art and its evolution.

One of the book's key themes is the relationship between art and language. Krauss argues that art is a visual medium and a language that can communicate ideas and concepts. She explores how artists have used language in their work, for example, text, titles, and captions.

Another important theme of the book is the relationship between art and politics. Krauss examines how artists have responded to political and social issues, particularly after World War II. She discusses how artists have used their work to critique their time's cultural and political ideologies. She explores how artists have challenged traditional art forms and structures and the emergence of new art forms, such as installation and performance art. These new forms have challenged the conventional boundaries between art and the viewer.

Krauss believes that art is not just about looks but language and meaning. She thinks traditional art history has ignored this. She has a theory called the 'optical unconscious,' which suggests that artwork is between what we see and know. Modern artists like Pollock and Rauschenberg explored this space through chance and potential occurrence. Krauss looks at the work of artists like Johns and Serra and says they blur the line between art and language, exploring how language can reveal and conceal meaning. She thinks art can be a way to challenge cultural norms and power structures and believes artists and critics should pay attention to language in art and that art can be a tool for social and political change.

'Under Blue Cup' is an insightful and thought-provoking collection of essays exploring key themes and ideas in modern art.

Krauss is an engaging writer, and her articles/essays are full of rich insights and ideas that interest me within the context of my degree.

Questions.

How has language impacted the meaning of art over time?

Artists have increasingly used language as a medium of art, creating new art forms like conceptual art. This has expanded what can be considered art and how art can communicate ideas.

How has art been used to respond to social and political issues?

Artists have used art to critique the current situation and raise awareness about pressing issues. Art can also shape cultural and political principles by presenting alternative viewpoints.

How have installation and performance art challenged traditional boundaries?

Installation and performance art have created immersive and interactive experiences, breaking the traditional barrier between the artwork and the audience. Instead, the audience/viewers becomes an active participant in creating the meaning.

What is the 'optical unconscious', and what does it mean for our understanding of art?

Is it the gap between what we see and what we know?

This theory suggests there is always more to art than what meets the eye, leading to interesting conversations about art. It may be that uncanny feeling, perhaps?

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