Photographic Postmodernism

Introduction

• Postmodernism: philosophy, ideology, art movement
• Impact on Western society
• Contrast with Modernism:
  • Innovation, experimentation
  • Rejection of historical values

Modernism Overview

• Emerged during late 19th and early 20th centuries
• Influenced by events like WWI
• Artists explored new definitions of art and culture
• Key styles:
  • Post-impressionism: Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh
  • Surrealism: Salvador Dali
  • Cubism: Pablo Picasso
• Modernist Photography:
  • Edward Weston: large format, abstract simplicity
  • Man Ray: Dadaism, Surrealism

Postmodernism Emergence

• Mid to late 20th century
• Social turmoil: emancipation of women, civil rights, Vietnam War
• Rejection of modernism's belief in progress
• Characteristics:
  • Criticism, skepticism, irony
  • Doubt about objective reality

Key Postmodern Artists

• Andy Warhol
  • Challenges classical representation
  • Commentary on mass production and authenticity
• Roy Lichtenstein
  • Blends high culture with pop culture

Postmodern Photography

• Shift from traditional subjects to commonplace
• Photography as a Conceptual Exercise
  • Appropriation of existing images
  • E.g. Jeff Wall, Cindy Sherman, Richard Prince
• Focus on self-representation
  • Yassi Moussa, Mori Miura

Impact on Art and Society

• Art for the artistic inner circle
• Postmodernism's influence on photography
• Dramatic societal impact
  • Emphasis on equity and representation
  • Challenges in achieving true inclusivity

Conclusion

• Abbreviated examination of postmodern photography
• Ongoing influence on creativity and art world
• Future developments remain uncertain