Rosalind Krauss

Definition

Rosalind Krauss is a prominent art critic, theorist, and co-founder of the journal 'October,' recognized for her influential writings on modern and contemporary art. Her work has significantly shaped art criticism and theory, particularly in relation to the ethics of criticism, the implications of new technologies in art, and the historical development of art theory.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Krauss's influential essay 'The Originality of the Avant-Garde' critiques traditional notions of originality in art, highlighting how contemporary practices often disrupt these concepts.
2. Her co-founding of 'October' in 1976 marked a significant moment in art criticism, providing a platform for rigorous theoretical discussions and critiques of contemporary art.
3. Krauss's work often addresses the ethical responsibilities of critics in interpreting and valuing artworks within their socio-political contexts.
4. She has explored the impact of new technologies on artistic production, emphasizing how digital media reshapes the relationship between artist and audience.
5. Krauss's scholarship spans various movements, including Surrealism and Minimalism, contributing to a deeper understanding of their cultural and historical significance.

Review Questions

• How does Rosalind Krauss approach the ethics of art criticism and what responsibilities does she believe critics have?
  • Rosalind Krauss emphasizes that art critics have a profound ethical responsibility to engage with artworks in their socio-political contexts. She argues that critics should not only evaluate aesthetics but also consider the broader implications of art in society. This involves being aware of how interpretations can shape public understanding and appreciation of art, thereby influencing cultural narratives.
• In what ways has Rosalind Krauss influenced the discourse surrounding new technologies in art production?
  • Krauss has significantly influenced discussions about new technologies by examining how they alter traditional practices and relationships within the art world. She argues that digital media expands the possibilities for artistic expression while also complicating notions of authorship and originality. By exploring these dynamics, she encourages a critical examination of how technology shapes both the creation and reception of contemporary art.
• Evaluate Rosalind Krauss's contributions to the historical development of art theory and how her ideas reflect shifts in contemporary art practices.
  • Rosalind Krauss's contributions to art theory reflect significant shifts in contemporary artistic practices by challenging established norms around originality and representation. Her critical essays reveal how modernism's boundaries are blurred through postmodern approaches that embrace fragmentation and intermediality. Krauss's work helps us understand how historical contexts inform artistic movements and critiques, paving the way for a more nuanced appreciation of diverse artistic expressions in today’s landscape.

Related terms

Formalism: An approach to art criticism that emphasizes the visual elements and design qualities of artworks, often sidelining historical and contextual considerations.

Postmodernism: A broad movement in art and culture that emerged in the late 20th century, characterized by skepticism towards grand narratives and an emphasis on diversity, fragmentation, and irony.

Intermediality: The blending or interaction of different artistic media and forms, often explored in contemporary art as a response to new technologies and changing artistic practices.