The Whitney Biennial, a survey of American art begun in 1932, has long been a platform for a wide range of artistic representation. The exhibition for 2022, titled Quiet As It’s Kept, is made up of a diverse array of mediums, covering themes of abstraction, narrative, and the challenge of defining what is “American.” Two of the featured artists are currently based in Providence: Tony Cokes and Michael E. Smith. Cokes’ work consists of video installations which recycle the words of notable figures from Judith Butler to John Lewis, juxtaposed against brightly colored slideshows. Smith is a sculptor, transforming common objects to create social commentary. The exhibition will remain open on partial viewing through October 16th.
Exploring the material histories of conflict minerals, ancient pigments, and archaeological objects, this article reflects on how artists—from RISD students to Rei Naito, a contemporary Japanese artist—act on their archival impulse, engaging with the past to shape contemporary expression.
How do we make art more accessible to visually impaired individuals?
Parsa considers the extent to which the decrees of the Council of Trent changed the subject matter, composition, and style of art in Europe in what has become known as Post-Tridentine art. He also reflects upon attempts to change and reform improper religious art during the Post-Tridentine era, as well as attempts to retroactively rectify issues in earlier prominent works of art.