Whitney Biennial 2012 (Biennial Exhibition / Whitney Museum of American Art)

Dive into the groundbreaking world of contemporary American art with the *Whitney Biennial 2012* catalogue. This comprehensive paperback, published by the Whitney Museum of American Art, serves as a vital record and insightful exploration of the museum's landmark exhibition. More than just a catalogue, it's a curated journey through the artistic landscape of 2012, showcasing the diverse and challenging work of approximately 50 artists across a multitude of mediums. The 2012 Biennial was a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about contemporary art, reflecting the social, political, and technological currents shaping creative expression. Curated by Elisabeth Sussman, who previously co-organized the impactful 1993 Biennial, and Jay Sanders, this edition explored themes ranging from identity and representation to the impact of technology and the complexities of the American experience. It presented a snapshot of the anxieties, aspirations, and artistic innovations that defined the era. This meticulously crafted catalogue provides a multi-faceted perspective on the exhibition. In addition to stunning reproductions of the artwork, it features insightful essays by Sussman and Sanders that contextualize the Biennial within the broader history of the Whitney's commitment to American art. Leading art historians and critics contribute their expertise, analyzing recurring themes, artistic techniques, and the diverse influences that shaped the artists' practices. What sets this catalogue apart is its unique emphasis on the artists' voices. A significant portion of the book is dedicated to original contributions from each participating artist, offering a rare and intimate glimpse into their creative processes, artistic philosophies, and the motivations behind their work. This experiential approach allows readers to connect with the art on a deeper level, fostering a more nuanced understanding of the exhibition's themes and the individual perspectives of the artists. The *Whitney Biennial 2012* catalogue is more than just a souvenir; it's a valuable resource for students, scholars, art enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolution of contemporary American art. It captures a specific moment in time, preserving the energy, innovation, and critical discourse that surrounded the exhibition. Featured artists include (but are not limited to) Kai Althoff, Thom Andersen, Charles Atlas, Lutz Bacher, Forrest Bess (represented by Robert Gober), Michael Clark, Dennis Cooper and Gisle Vienne, Cameron Crawford, Moyra Davey, Liz Deschenes, Nathaniel Dorsky, Nicole Eisenman, Kevin Jerome Everson, Vincent Fecteau, Andrea Fraser, LaToya Ruby Frazier, Vincent Gallo, K8 Hardy, Richard Hawkins, Werner Herzog, Jerome Hiler, Matt Hoyt, Dawn Kasper, Mike Kelley, John Kelsey, John Knight, Jutta Koether, George Kuchar, Laida Lertxundi, Kate Levant, Sam Lewitt, Joanna Malinowska, Andrew Masullo, Nick Mauss, Richard Maxwell, Sarah Michelson, Alicia Hall Moran and Jason Moran, Laura Poitras, Matt Porterfield, Luther Price, Lucy Raven, The Red Krayola, Kelly Reichardt, Elaine Reichek, Michael Robinson, Georgia Sagri, Michael E. Smith, Tom Thayer, Wu Tsang, Oscar Tuazon, and Frederick Wiseman. This diverse group represents a wide range of artistic practices and perspectives, making the 2012 Biennial a truly comprehensive survey of contemporary American art. This illustrated edition, spanning 320 pages, offers a tangible and lasting record of a landmark exhibition. Whether you experienced the 2012 Biennial firsthand or are discovering it for the first time, this catalogue is an essential addition to any art library. It provides a rich and rewarding exploration of the artists, ideas, and cultural forces that shaped contemporary art in the early 21st century.