Rosalind Krauss

Definition

Rosalind Krauss is an influential art historian and critic known for her significant contributions to contemporary art theory and criticism. Her work often challenges traditional narratives in art history, particularly through the exploration of modernism and postmodernism, as well as the role of media in art. She co-founded the journal 'October,' which became a key platform for critical discourse in the field.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Krauss's book 'The Originality of the Avant-Garde and Other Modernist Myths' argues against the myth of originality in modern art, presenting it as a construct that obscures the collaborative nature of artistic practice.
2. She has written extensively on artists like Cindy Sherman and Robert Smithson, offering new interpretations of their work through the lens of feminist and postmodern theory.
3. Krauss critiques formalist approaches to art history that prioritize aesthetics over context, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of art's social and cultural implications.
4. Her concept of 'the expanded field' redefined how we understand sculpture by examining its relationship to architecture and landscape, influencing how contemporary artists approach spatial practices.
5. Krauss's involvement with 'October' positioned her as a leading voice in critical discussions around contemporary art, making significant contributions to the debate on its role in society.

Review Questions

• How does Rosalind Krauss's work challenge traditional narratives in art history?
  • Rosalind Krauss challenges traditional narratives in art history by questioning the concept of originality and critiquing formalist approaches that overlook social contexts. Through her writings, she emphasizes that modern and contemporary art cannot be understood solely through aesthetic evaluation but must also consider the socio-political implications. By analyzing the works of various artists through feminist and postmodern lenses, she opens up new interpretations that diverge from established historical frameworks.
• In what ways does Krauss's concept of 'the expanded field' influence contemporary understanding of sculpture?
  • Krauss's concept of 'the expanded field' significantly influences contemporary understanding of sculpture by expanding its definition beyond traditional three-dimensional forms. She posits that sculpture can intersect with architecture and landscape, leading to a broader interpretation of spatial practices in art. This framework allows artists to explore new mediums and environments, reshaping how sculpture is conceptualized and perceived in the context of contemporary artistic practices.
• Evaluate the impact of Rosalind Krauss's contributions to critical theory on the discourse surrounding modernism and postmodernism.
  • Rosalind Krauss's contributions to critical theory have profoundly impacted the discourse surrounding modernism and postmodernism by providing frameworks that interrogate the assumptions underlying both movements. Her critical examination of notions like originality has opened up discussions about authorship, collaboration, and the socio-political functions of art. By aligning her analysis with feminist theory and other critical perspectives, Krauss enriches our understanding of how art interacts with broader cultural narratives, encouraging a re-evaluation of both modernist ideals and postmodern skepticism.

Related terms

Modernism: A cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and an emphasis on innovation and experimentation in art, literature, and architecture.

Postmodernism: A broad movement that arose in the mid-20th century as a reaction against modernism, questioning established narratives and embracing pluralism, irony, and the mixing of styles.

Critical Theory: An interdisciplinary approach to understanding cultural phenomena, emphasizing the relationship between society, culture, and power structures, often used to analyze art and its context.