For twenty-five years the Whitney Museum of American Art at Altria has occupied an entirely unique niche within the New York art world. Operating under the aegis of the Whitney Museum of American Art and funded by Altria Group, Inc., Whitney at Altria has enjoyed great programmatic freedom and presented exciting new work, always free to the public. Its commissioned exhibitions, annual performance series (dance, theater, and music), and innovative public programming have supported cutting-edge projects by numerous contemporary artists and performers, no small number of whom have gone on to become major art world figures.
This anthology celebrates the fascinating history of the Whitney at Altria and for the first time plumbs the archivesphotographs of exhibitions and performances and museum brochures published for each eventto provide a record of this incomparable museum and its contributions to contemporary art.
Distributed for the Whitney Museum of American Art
Celebrate a quarter-century of groundbreaking art with "Whitney Museum of American Art at Altria: 25 Years," a captivating anthology that chronicles the unique and vital contributions of this satellite museum to the contemporary art landscape. For 25 years, the Whitney Museum of American Art at Altria, a distinctive branch of the renowned Whitney Museum, has served as a vibrant hub for cutting-edge creativity, unfettered artistic exploration, and accessible art experiences for the public in New York City. Fueled by the support of Altria Group, Inc., this space fostered an environment of exceptional programmatic freedom, allowing it to champion emerging artists and present daring new works that pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. This meticulously curated volume, authored by Adam D. Weinberg and Shamim M. Momin, offers an unprecedented glimpse into the rich history of the Whitney at Altria. Through a treasure trove of archival materials, including striking photographs of exhibitions and electrifying performance captures, "Whitney Museum of American Art at Altria: 25 Years" provides a comprehensive record of the museum's impact on the art world. Delve into a captivating selection of museum brochures created for each event, providing insights into the curatorial vision and artistic dialogues that shaped the museum's programming. Discover the stories behind the groundbreaking exhibitions that launched the careers of numerous artists who have since become major figures in the art world. Relive the energy of the annual performance series, showcasing the best in contemporary dance, theater, and music. Explore the innovative public programs that engaged audiences and fostered a deeper appreciation for contemporary art. This anthology not only celebrates the legacy of the Whitney at Altria, but also offers a valuable resource for scholars, art enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolution of contemporary art in America. Weinberg and Momin present a compelling narrative that emphasizes the museum's role in supporting artistic innovation and providing a platform for diverse voices. More than just a historical record, "Whitney Museum of American Art at Altria: 25 Years" is a testament to the power of collaboration between art institutions and corporate sponsors. It illustrates how such partnerships can create unique opportunities for artists and contribute to the cultural enrichment of communities. This illustrated edition, published in 2008 by the Whitney Museum of American Art, is a must-have for any serious collector of art books or anyone who values the importance of accessible and challenging art. Weighing in at 975 grams, this hardcover edition with 192 pages offers a substantial and visually stunning overview of this pivotal institution, providing a valuable resource for understanding the dynamism of contemporary art in the 21st century. Whether you're an art historian, a practicing artist, or simply someone who loves to explore new creative frontiers, this book offers a rich and rewarding journey through the history of a truly remarkable museum.