Ringgold, Faith. American People Series, #20
Picking Up the Mike: Youth Generated Podcast Tours
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Download: 2:24 min / 2.8 MB MP3
In the 1960s many people of the western world rejected conservative norms. Filled with hope for the future, they questioned governments, demanded civil rights and embraced sexual freedoms. What started in small youth and activist groups became a widespread movement for change. There was also a radical shift in art-making. Instead of just painting and sculpture, artists experimented with everyday objects, pop culture references, film and performance as they sought new freedoms of expression.
Across the globe people also fought for civil rights, women's rights and protested the Vietnam War. They clashed with authorities and fellow citizens, often with bloody results. Looking back today, many artworks seem detached from this political and social unrest. While some are clearly connected to the turmoil, most leading artists created sparsely minimalist and abstract art. This conflict between the art and life invites the question: does an artwork need to be obvious in order to be political?
To experience artworks and ideas from the 1960s, visit the 4th floor of the David and Vivian Campbell Centre for Contemporary Art.
Partners
Signature Partner: Contemporary Collection Program
Supported by:
Research and installation of the contemporary art galleries are generously supported by:
- Carol & Morton Rapp
- The Contemporary Circle
- Sandra Faire & Ivan Fecan
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