Carnegie Mellon University
April 22, 2010

What Happens When Art Provokes American Society - and Why

What Happens When Art Provokes American Society - and Why

Michael Kammen, Professor of American History and Culture, Emeritus, Cornell University

Thursday, April 22, 7:00 PM, Gregg Hall (Porter Hall 100)

Overview

The lecture will discuss controversial issues raised by ‘modern art,’ public art, government-funded art, sexually provocative art, and the changing role of museums in American society.  Special attention will be paid to the curious way some major works of provocative art eventually earn not only acceptance, but even plaudits.  How does public opinion make 180 degree turns?  The lecture is profusely illustrated.

Co-sponsored by the Center for the Arts in Society, the Department of History, and the University Lecture Series.