From argument to image – visual polemics and other artists’ weapons

DFG project “The argumentative strategies of visual artists in the modern era”

How do visual artists argue with one another and how do they use their works as weapons? How do they let critics and rivals know exactly how they feel without showing the middle finger and – when possible without words – illustrate this in a way the public understands? Can these strategies also be applied to the visual language of architecture? How do artists chastise and insult ignorant patrons without consequences? What happens when artists overreact or when they overstep the bounds of tolerance with irrational behaviour? What happens when rival artists react? How can claims of intrigue and slander be substantiated?

These and other questions will be the subject of the upcoming congress “The argumentative strategies of visual artists in the modern era”, organised by the DFG project. Aim of the event is to encourage a debate on the artistic argument as a phenomenon and the creative potential it unleashes. The program is open for discussion of examples of artists using or exploiting their works as an argumentative medium across all eras. Possible examples of such clashes include attacks on rivals, critics or patrons.

The DFG project “The argumentative strategies of visual artists in the modern era” is now welcoming suggestions for 20 minute presentations to be sent to the post address, or via email to: dlehmann[at]uni-bonn.de

The conference will be held in German and English and suggestions for topics should not exceed 300 words or one A4 page.