30137 - History of Contemporary Art (LM)

Course contents

The course aims to analyze the spread of the so-called Avant-garde and Neo-Avant-garde movements of the twentieth century from the perspective of their emergence and relationship with the market and institutions.
The lectures are divided into two blocks: an introductory section covering approximately two-thirds of the lectures, and a monographic section highlighting the role of the Venice Biennale in artistic promotion.

The Avant-Garde and the Art System

The course examines the concept of "avant-garde" from a critical standpoint, emphasizing its connection to the exhibition system that evolved throughout the twentieth century. It also highlights the significance of the market in establishing a value system based on the "exposability" of artworks.
The lessons are organized chronologically and use several case studies to highlight key moments in the history of the avant-garde. They begin with the emergence of the "dealer-critic system" and the diffusion of radical experiences associated with historical avant-gardes. After World War II, the concept of "avant-garde" experienced a revival and reinterpretation, linking it to dissent, radicalism, and innovative research. This phase in avant-garde history is shaped by the various readings and interpretations made by artists and the market. The role of the gallery owner becomes crucial, as they work internationally and collaborate closely with institutions to promote artists. The course also explores recent experiences that have shifted the focus from the concept of the avant-garde to a broader and more ambiguous idea of contemporaneity.

This first part of the course seeks to illustrate the complexities of the art ecosystem from the twentieth century to the present. It will cover various participants, including artists, critics, gallery owners, patrons, curators, intellectuals, dealers, museum directors, and collectors. To enhance understanding, students will also receive foundational knowledge about how the contemporary art market operates.

The Biennale Effect

The second part of the course focuses on an institution that has successfully navigated the artistic and geopolitical shifts of the contemporary world, from the late nineteenth century to the present day. Founded in 1895, the Venice Biennale has aimed to promote contemporary art. This mission will be examined in the context of significant changes within the institution, its exhibitions, and the political and artistic landscapes over the last 150 years. The evolution of the concept of "avant-garde" and its promotion through the exhibition system will also be explored. Through this exemplary case study, students will deepen their understanding and closely analyze the key concepts discussed in the introductory section, thereby expanding their knowledge and skills.

Readings/Bibliography

The bibliography consists of the following volumes and readings. The texts are intended to supplement the lectures and therefore do not replace the content covered in the course. 

- Nathalie Heinich, Il paradigma dell’arte contemporanea. Strutture di una rivoluzione artistica, Johan & Levi, 2022.

- Clarissa Ricci, Aperto 1980-1993. La mostra dei giovani artisti della Biennale di Venezia, Postmediabooks, 2022.

- Clarissa Ricci, Mercanti a Venezia (forthcoming November 2025)

 

Non-attending students must contact the teacher in time and must integrate the readings with the following volumes:

- Hal Foster, Il ritorno del reale. L'avanguardia alla fine del Novecento, Postmediabooks, 2006.

- Elisabetta Modena, Display. Luoghi Dispositivi Gesti, Einaudi, 2024.

- Clarissa Ricci, Le Istituzioni del Contemporaneo, Mimesis Edizioni

 

Teaching methods

The course is divided into 15 lectures focusing on specific case studies. Lectures will be delivered in both frontal and seminar formats.

Assessment methods

Oral Exam

Learning is assessed taking into account performance on an oral exam which is aimed at verifying the student’s knowledge of the material covered in the lessons (50%) and the readings assigned (50%). Therefore, questions will be asked both on the readings in the bibliography and on notes taken during the lessons.

 

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is necessary to contact the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en) with ample time in advance: the office will propose some adjustments, which must in any case be submitted 15 days in advance to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of these in relation to the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Interactive presentations, videos and PowerPoints.

Office hours

See the website of Clarissa Ricci