Book Review

This book, edited by Steven madoff looked at where art schools have been, and what type of art and artists were produced as a result. Madoff also explored how an education in art could be changed to meet the diverse needs of the 21st Century. If you would like to read a copy of this book, it can be purchased here. The nearest library with a copy can also be found by entering the title here.

The author described how the majority of those who studied art (particularly those who earned M.F.A. degrees),later became instructors or teachers of art. His argument was centered around the idea that if artists were to become teachers, they should be more prepared and adept to the many resources and tools available to communicate the lessons of art. He added that this was not happening, and as a result art works have become lackluster in quality.

Madoff was succinct in his writing, and it was not difficult to follow his thoughts. His observations on what happened to students when they left art school were particularly interesting. I agree that the majority become educators and I would add that as educators, these artist/teachers have perpetuated a flatness that has affected the art world in recent decades.

Art has long been a descriptor for the societies that produced it. If art in this century is to maintain a significance, change in how artists learn and think should be considered. Please leave your comments,and I'll see you next time.