The first definitive account of the groundbreaking Young British Artists, from their dramatic arrival in the late 1980s through the disbanding of the group and beyond The Young British Artists (YBAs) stormed onto the contemporary art scene in 1988 with their attention-grabbing, ironic art. Both dismissed as trivial gimmickry and praised for its witty energy, their art made an indelible mark on the art scene and on public consciousness, still visible today.
Brit Art tells the story of the YBAs, chronicling the groups rise to prominence from the landmark show Freeze curated by Damien Hirst in the late 1980s, through the heyday of the 1990s and the notorious Sensation exhibition, to the Momart fire of 2004 that seemed to symbolize the groups fade from center stage. A postscript reveals where they are now, with an overview of each artists career in the last decade.
Drawing on interviews with all the key Brit Art players, as well as extensive archival research, Elizabeth Fullerton examines the entire cast of characters, as well as crucial events and seminal artworks. She considers, too, the political, economic, and artistic context of those twenty years the group was most active. Among the artists discussed are Damien Hirst, Rachel Whiteread, Tracey Emin, Jake and Dinos Chapman, Sarah Lucas, and Gary Hume. 200+ illustrations in color and black-and-white
Dive into the captivating and often controversial world of the Young British Artists (YBAs) with "Artrage!: The Inside Story of the BritArt Revolution" by Elizabeth Fullerton. This meticulously researched and richly illustrated hardcover provides the definitive account of one of the most influential and provocative art movements of the late 20th century. More than just a historical record, "Artrage!" offers an intimate and insightful look into the personalities, motivations, and creative processes that fueled the YBA phenomenon. Fullerton doesn't simply rehash familiar narratives; she delves deep into the socio-political climate of Thatcher-era Britain and beyond, exploring how economic shifts, cultural anxieties, and a thirst for innovation converged to create fertile ground for the YBAs' audacious and often shocking artistic expressions. From the pivotal "Freeze" exhibition curated by Damien Hirst in 1988 a watershed moment that launched the careers of many to the sensational "Sensation" exhibition at the Royal Academy, which ignited fierce public debate, "Artrage!" meticulously charts the YBAs' meteoric rise and the controversies that dogged their every move. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary art, cultural history, or the dynamics of the art market. Fullerton goes beyond the headlines, offering nuanced portraits of key figures like Damien Hirst, the enfant terrible of the group; Rachel Whiteread, whose haunting sculptures captured the zeitgeist; Tracey Emin, whose raw and confessional art challenged societal norms; Jake and Dinos Chapman, known for their darkly satirical and often disturbing works; Sarah Lucas, who subverted traditional notions of femininity and sexuality; and Gary Hume, whose vibrant and deceptively simple paintings captivated audiences. What sets "Artrage!" apart is Fullerton's commitment to providing a comprehensive and balanced perspective. She draws upon extensive archival research and insightful interviews with the artists themselves, as well as curators, collectors, and critics, to offer a multifaceted understanding of the YBA phenomenon. The book also explores the impact of influential figures like Charles Saatchi, whose patronage played a crucial role in the YBAs' success, and examines the role of key galleries and institutions in shaping the movement's trajectory. Beyond the well-known controversies and sensational artworks, "Artrage!" delves into the artistic and intellectual underpinnings of the YBAs' work, exploring their influences, their engagement with art history, and their contributions to the evolution of contemporary art. Fullerton also examines the challenges and tensions within the group, as individual artists pursued their own unique paths and the YBA label began to feel restrictive. The book doesn't shy away from addressing the criticisms leveled against the YBAs, from accusations of superficiality and commercialism to questions about the long-term value of their work. The book also features a fascinating postscript, bringing the story up to date and revealing the diverse directions that the YBAs have taken in the years since their initial breakthrough. It offers a glimpse into their ongoing artistic practices and reflects on their enduring legacy in the art world. With over 200 illustrations in both color and black and white, "Artrage!" is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating exploration of a truly revolutionary moment in art history. This edition from Thames & Hudson provides a rich and detailed account, solidifying its place as the definitive resource on the BritArt movement. Experience the inside story of the art revolution that changed everything.
