Global Contemporary

Unit 10: Global Contemporary

Historical Background

The devastation of WWII formed the backdrop for much of the rest of the 20th century.
With the invention of television, global issues were brought into the living rooms of millions as never before. Issues included racism, the environment, weapons of mass destruction, etc. These led to a tense atmosphere, even for those parts of the world not physically touched by conflict. Artists are quick to pick up on social and political issues, using them to fuel and narrate their artworks.
Rapid growth of technology brought great advances in medical science and everyday living. Inventions like home computers or cell phones are now necessities of modern life.
Artists exploit materials like plastics, video projections, computer graphics, sound installations, fiberglass products, and lasers.

Since 1980, everything about architecture has changed, primarily due to the use of the computer. Blueprints are no longer painstakingly drawn but instead programs like AutoCAD and MicroStation can create and troubleshoot errors with ease.
New age technology has produced an array of products that make buildings lighter, cheaper, and more energy efficient than before.
Innovative materials like titanium or unusual shapes set apart the traditional architecture frameworks from the modern. Natural light supplemented by artificial light is in.

Acrylic paint - in the 1950s, acrylic was invented and preferred due to the little time it takes to dry and the color vitality when it does dry. However, acrylics crack with time much faster than other paints do. Contemporary artists working "for the ages" still prefer oils for this reason.
While traditional painting techniques are still popular, many modern artists have abandoned the canvas for the computer screen. Computer programs make the process easier, while allowed for an endless array of applications and alternatives.
Marble carving is no longer. Modern forms of sculpture are faster to produce and even easier to reproduce. Anything that can be molded is experimented with to make a visceral impact. Installations and assemblages become commonplace.

20th Century

21st Century