Visual Shock: A History of Art Controversies in American Culture

In this lively narrative, award-winning author Michael Kammen presents a fascinating analysis of cutting-edge art and artists and their unique ability to both delight and provoke us. He illuminates America's obsession with public memorials and the changing role of art and museums in our society. From Thomas Eakins's 1875 masterpiece The Gross Clinic, (considered "too big, bold, and gory" when first exhibited) to the bitter disputes about Maya Lin's Vietnam War Memorial, this is an eye-opening account of American art and the battles and controversies that it has ignited.

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Vintage
Published: 11/06/2007
ISBN: 9781400034642
Pages: 480
Weight: 1.09lbs
Size: 8.05h x 5.24w x 1.02d

Review Citations: New York Times Book Review 11/25/2007 pg. 32