14 rooms in Modern and Contemporary British Art
Artists begin working with ideas and images that can be rapidly transmitted in an increasingly interconnected world, addressing political and social issues
The late 1960s is seen by many as a high point in cultural experimentation and revolutionary ideals. Artists begin developing art that is more concerned with ideas than aesthetics. They also want to democratise how art is produced, shared and experienced. These artists do not think of their work as something to be owned but instead as a way to exchange ideas. They emphasise process: how and why you make something is more important than what you produce. They often move out of their studios to work in the streets and don’t use traditional art materials. It seems to be an art of endless possibility, as artists embrace new materials, processes and actions.
As the 1960s becomes the 1970s, artists in Britain increasingly use these strategies to address social issues. These include: the personal and political injustices identified by the feminist movement, the poor condition of social housing, the legacy of British colonialism, experiences of racism, and escalating global political tension, including war in Vietnam.
Technological developments, exemplified by the 1969 moon landing of Apollo 11, also mark this era. Another of the most profound legacies of the time is the women’s liberation movement. Soon after the UK joins the European Communities in 1973, the global oil crisis contributes to economic recession and severe inflation. The country sees nationwide strikes by workers demanding that their pay keeps up with the rising cost of living. Many artists respond to this crisis that drives people to gather and protest.
Art in this room
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