Cambridge Studies in American Visual Culture

1 total work

Abstract Expressionism and the Cultural Logic of Romantic Anti-Capitalism

by David Craven

Published 13 February 1999

Abstract Expressionism and the Cultural Logic of Romantic Anti-Capitalism examines the artistic aims of the New York School of painters within the context of left wing political discussions during the 1940s and 50s. By drawing on new primary material from contemporary art critics, including Meyer Schapiro and Marta Traba, David Craven addresses Abstract Expressionism as a response to the politics of the Cold War. Outlining the artistic intentions of New York School painters, Craven shows how Abstract Expressionism emerged as an implicit criticism of important mainstream ideas in the United States during the McCarthy era.