A wry and beautifully observed memoir about coming of age in the era of conceptual art.
Growing up in the suburbsconfused about his sexuality, about his consumer-oriented world, about the death of his older brotherBernard Cooper falls in love with Pop art and sets off for the California Institute of the Arts, the center of the burgeoning field of conceptual art, in this beguiling memoir. The most famous, and infamous, artists of the time drift through the place, including Allan Kaprow and John Baldessari, not to mention the student who phones the Identi-Kit division of the Los Angeles Police Department and has them make a composite drawing of the Mona Lisa.
My Avant-Garde Education is at once an artist’s coming-of-age story and a personal chronicle of the era of conceptual art, from a writer “of uncommon subtlety and nuance” (David Ulin, Los Angeles Times). It is a record of the wonders and follies of a certain era in art history, always aware that awakening to art is, for a young person, inseparable from awakening to the ever-shifting nature of the self. 48 photographs
Dive into the vibrant and transformative world of conceptual art and personal discovery with Bernard Cooper's captivating memoir, "My Avant-Garde Education." This beautifully written and illustrated hardcover edition, published by W. W. Norton & Company in 2015, offers a unique perspective on a pivotal era in art history through the eyes of a young man grappling with identity, loss, and the burgeoning landscape of contemporary art. Cooper's story begins in the suburbs, where he navigates the complexities of adolescence questioning his sexuality, confronting a consumer-driven culture, and mourning the profound loss of his brother. Seeking solace and inspiration, he finds himself drawn to the revolutionary spirit of Pop art, a movement that challenged conventions and redefined artistic expression. This fascination leads him to the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), a hotbed of creativity and experimentation, where the very definition of art was being debated and redefined. "My Avant-Garde Education" isn't just a memoir; it's a cultural snapshot of a time when artists pushed boundaries and explored uncharted territories. Cooper masterfully recreates the atmosphere of CalArts, populated by legendary figures like Allan Kaprow, known for his "Happenings," and John Baldessari, a pioneer of conceptual photography. He paints a vivid picture of the artistic ferment, where students challenged traditional notions of art, embraced unconventional materials, and questioned the very nature of representation. Imagine a place where a student might actually commission a composite drawing of the Mona Lisa from the LAPD's Identi-Kit division a scenario that perfectly encapsulates the playful and subversive spirit of the era. But at its heart, this is a personal story of self-discovery. As Cooper immerses himself in the world of conceptual art, he also embarks on a journey of self-exploration. The 256 pages, enhanced by 48 evocative photographs, detail his struggles to understand his own identity and place in the world. He reflects on the influence of his family, the impact of his brother's death, and the challenges of coming to terms with his sexuality in a society that often demanded conformity. The book explores the intertwined nature of artistic and personal growth, showing how the exploration of art can be a powerful catalyst for self-understanding. Critics have lauded Cooper's memoir for its honesty, humor, and insightful observations. His writing is characterized by a keen eye for detail and a remarkable ability to capture the essence of a time and place. As David Ulin of the Los Angeles Times aptly put it, Cooper is a writer "of uncommon subtlety and nuance." "My Avant-Garde Education" is more than just a chronicle of the conceptual art movement; it's a moving and insightful exploration of what it means to come of age in a world that is constantly changing. It will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider, questioned the status quo, or sought to find their own voice in a world that often tries to silence individuality. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a student of cultural history, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted memoir, this book is sure to captivate and inspire. Explore the complexities of art, identity, and the search for meaning with Bernard Cooper's compelling narrative.
