Nonconformers
A New History of Self-Taught Artists
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Yale University Press
Published:12th Apr '22
Should be back in stock very soon
This book offers a detailed exploration of self-taught artists and their significant impact on modern art. Nonconformers challenges traditional narratives.
In Nonconformers, the author delves into the rich and often overlooked history of self-taught artists who have shaped modern and contemporary art. This book provides a comprehensive examination of how these artists, often marginalized by the mainstream art world, have contributed significantly to various artistic movements. By highlighting the works of individuals such as Henry Darger, Hilma af Klint, and Bill Traylor, Nonconformers seeks to elevate the narratives of those who have traditionally been placed in the background of art history.
The text also sheds light on the transformative impact of artists from diverse backgrounds, including women, people with disabilities, and people of color. Through a nuanced exploration, the book addresses the limitations often imposed by the art establishment and advocates for a broader understanding of creativity beyond conventional boundaries. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contributions of self-taught artists and their unique perspectives.
With contributions from an international group of writers, Nonconformers covers a wide array of topics, from the evolution of the Black Folk Art movement in America to the intricacies of l’Art Brut in France. Featuring new interviews with contemporary artists, the book provides insights into the creative processes of those who operate outside traditional artistic frameworks, making it an essential resource for art enthusiasts and scholars alike.
“[A] handsomely produced book. . . . A section on the self-taught architecture in grand structures by Sabato “Simon” Rodia, builder of the Watts Tower in Los Angeles, and Nek Chand Saini, creator of the Rock Garden in Chandigarh, India, gives welcome attention to constructed monumental projects that self-taught designers imagine but rarely build.”—David D’Arcy, Art Newspaper
“Featuring William Edmondson, Bill Traylor, Aloïse Corbaz and more, this book highlights marginalized artists.”—New York Times Book Review
“An essential addition to any discerning art lover’s collection. . . . An informative and important companion for art aficionados, budding curators and total novices alike.”—Vanity Fair London
“Slominski offers new insights here into the influence of artists such as Hilma af Klint on the development of modern art, and presents interviews with contemporary self-taught artists such as Mamadou Cissé.”—Apollo
“A fine survey of work by outsider artists. . . . [Lisa Slominski is a] perceptive critic.”—Michael Glover, The Tablet, “Best New Art Books”
“Hilma af Klint, the woman behind the abstract 1907 painting is just one art outsider who gets a more nuanced reappraisal in this fascinating new book.”—Artists & Illustrators, “Book of the Month”
“Nonconformers underlines the relevance of self-taught artists, be it aesthetic, spiritual, or practical. It’s a must read for those who wish to expand their knowledge of Art in totality.”—Dr. Joyce J. Scott, visual artist/MacArthur Fellow
“A provocative and meticulous study of over 60 self-taught artists from around the world. Even more importantly, it questions the history, includes essays from global experts, and redefines the entire genre.”—Iain Jackson, University of Liverpool
“The artist Lonnie Holley recently referred to himself as ‘self-taught . . . the same way Neil Armstrong might have described himself as a self-taught moon walker.’ Lisa Slominski’s new book Nonconformers approaches creativity with the same spirit—that the work of artists like Holley and others is expansive and without bounds. It points to a future where these artists lead the way, as they have all along.”—Annalise Flynn, independent art historian and curator
ISBN: 9780300260229
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
400 pages