Is contemporary art a trackless domain or a structured language?
In short: Many believe contemporary art is so diverse that it is impossible to find a common vocabulary. However, art theory suggests that beneath the surface of pluralism lies a structured language with distinct patterns and affinities that shape how we see, teach, and value visual culture.
James Elkins, a curator and educator, argues against the common perception that contemporary art is a 'trackless domain of interrelated voices.' While the sheer variety of modern practice can make it feel impossible to define what counts as pertinent art theory, Elkins suggests that it actually functions more like a language or a language family. By identifying patterns and affinities, students can begin to see the underlying structure of the art world rather than viewing it as a chaotic collection of unrelated ideas.
This pedagogical approach aims to raise the bar for art education by providing a coherent, cross-referenced vocabulary. It covers central concepts such as the sublime, religion, politics, and representation, while also critically examining the conditions of art education itself. This includes investigating how masterpieces were historically valued, how art history books can reflect nationalist perspectives, and the origins of studio prompts—distinguishing which are modernist and which are premodern.
The series of over 70 videos, originally developed for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, is notably self-reflexive and self-critical. It does not just present facts; it questions the very necessity of studying art history or theory. It explores the lack of clear definitions for professional degrees like the BFA and MFA and examines how traces of older, earlier kinds of teaching still survive in contemporary practice.
Ultimately, the goal is to empower students to understand the 'conditions of their own education.' By recognizing that art theory is a structured system of thought rather than a random assortment of styles, learners can better navigate the complexities of the visual arts. This framework allows for a deeper understanding of how art is taught globally and how specific concepts are interconnected across different eras and media.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Concepts and Problems in the Visual Arts, Lecture H13: Theories of contemporary art
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