Artforum

Definition

Artforum is a contemporary art magazine that has played a crucial role in shaping the discourse surrounding modern and contemporary art since its founding in 1962. It features critical essays, reviews, and interviews with artists, curators, and other art professionals, making it an influential platform for both promoting and critiquing artistic practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Artforum is known for its in-depth articles and critiques that address not only individual artworks but also broader trends in the contemporary art scene.
2. The magazine has featured numerous influential artists and critics over the years, becoming a go-to source for both emerging voices and established figures in the art world.
3. Artforum publishes a special annual issue focusing on global art events, which showcases significant exhibitions and developments in different regions around the world.
4. The publication has a distinct style characterized by its sleek design, high-quality printing, and critical approach to various forms of visual culture.
5. Artforum's impact extends beyond print; it also maintains a robust online presence that engages with current events in the art world through blogs and social media.

Review Questions

• How has Artforum influenced the development of contemporary art criticism?
  • Artforum has significantly influenced contemporary art criticism by providing a platform for critical discourse that explores complex themes and challenges within the art world. Its commitment to publishing thorough reviews and essays allows for diverse perspectives, which helps shape public understanding of contemporary art practices. By featuring both established critics and emerging voices, Artforum fosters a dynamic dialogue that keeps pace with evolving artistic movements.
• Discuss the relationship between Artforum and the promotion of contemporary artists in the global art scene.
  • Artforum plays a vital role in promoting contemporary artists by showcasing their work through critical reviews, interviews, and features. This exposure can elevate an artist's profile, leading to increased visibility within the competitive art market. The magazine's focus on global events also helps connect artists with international audiences, enabling them to participate in broader conversations about their work and its relevance to current cultural issues.
• Evaluate the significance of Artforum's editorial choices in shaping public perception of artistic trends and movements over time.
  • Artforum's editorial choices are significant as they reflect and often dictate prevailing trends in contemporary art. By selecting specific themes to cover or particular artists to feature, the magazine influences what is deemed important or noteworthy within the art community. This can lead to shifts in public perception regarding emerging styles or movements, highlighting certain aspects of contemporary practice while potentially sidelining others. Thus, Artforum not only documents but actively shapes the narrative surrounding modern art.

Related terms

Critical Theory: An intellectual movement that critiques society and culture by applying knowledge from various fields including philosophy, sociology, and literary theory, often influencing art criticism.

Contemporary Art: Art produced in the late 20th century and early 21st century that reflects current cultural themes and issues, often breaking traditional boundaries in style and medium.

Art Criticism: The practice of evaluating and interpreting works of art through various theoretical lenses, providing insights into their cultural significance and artistic value.