World-Forming and Contemporary Art

by Jessica Holtaway

Overview

This book explores how contemporary art can alter the ways in which we visualise and conceptualise the world and the social relations that shape it. Drawing from the writings of philosopher Jean-Luc Nancy, it spotlights the concept of ‘world-forming’ and the political significance of art-making and viewing.

The central theme of ‘world-forming’ focuses attention on the processes of globalisation. The book explores how artists can facilitate shared creative spaces within and beyond the apparatuses of global capitalism. The book traces a philosophical progression from ontology to the political through a series of participatory practices. It forwards Jean-Luc Nancy’s idea of ‘world-forming’ in order to show how contemporary art sustains critical and creative engagement with social practices. The overall objective of the book is to show, through participatory practices, how contemporary art can facilitate social change.

The book will be of interest to scholars working in art history, contemporary art, philosophy and politics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780367628444
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	10/08/2024
Series:	Routledge Focus on Art History and Visual Studies
Pages:	128
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Jessica Holtaway is Lecturer at Solent University. Her research centres on politically-engaged artworks and performances.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1. Art, Politics and Globalisation 2. Jean-Luc Nancy and Contemporary Art 3. Participatory Art and ‘Spacing’ 4. Contemporary Art and ‘Exscribing’ 5. Cultural Institutions and ‘Co-Appearing’ Conclusion: Recomposing the Image of the World