American Art, Then and Now

A three-part lecture series given by Dr. Francis GREENE about aspects of American art from 1750 until today

In this series we will explore major moments, movements, and turning points in American Art. While the various paintings and monuments we examine are all beautiful and compelling for the ideas that inform them, we will look to see if there emerge, from the specific artists and art works, any themes or characteristics unique to art in America. What does the art reveal about the society in which it was created and by which it has been preserved and honored?

Forging Artistic Visions in a New World
Wednesday, November 3, 2010

When artists first began to exercise their creative talents in America, there was no national history or tradition to draw upon, in comparison, for example, to Europe of the time, where artistic and cultural traditions reached back for millennia. What were early American artists to do? Create totally new and fresh forms of art without known precedent? Or borrow from the long-established cultures of Europe, perhaps from the very countries they had left in coming to the “New World” ?

Uniquely American Art?
Wednesday, November 10, 2010

19th century American Art is marked by a rich diversity of styles and movements, matched by the exquisite quality of the art works themselves. But, is there anything uniquely American about the art produced or is it merely derivative of Europe and countries beyond?

The 20th Century & Beyond: Different Ways of Seeing
Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Not long after the dawn of the 20th century the United States became a world power and increasingly informed the direction of art in the Western World. This trend came to full fruition after World War II. How did American Art of the 20th Century demand new ways of looking, not only at art, but at reality?

Presented by Crossroads Cultural Center

The lectures are free and open to the public.

About this Event

Date: Wednesdays - November 3, 10 and 17
Time: 7 pm
Location: Crossroads Auditorium
125 Maiden Lane, 15th Floor
New York, NY map

About the Speaker

Francis Greene
Art Historian

Invitation

Download invitation here

Photos - click on image below