The point of departure for the present publication is the strikingly innovative artistic spirit of the Russian avant-garde, along with the Socialist Realism that became established after the revolution. It addresses the radical conceptions of the revolutionary artistic movements of the early 20th century and their significance for the breakthroughs to abstraction and Constructivism. It also traces the implications and the traces of Socialist Realism as an ideologically motivated pictorial formula up to the present day. Also investigated is the actuality and viability of revolutionary ideas and art with reference to numerous examples of both abstract and representational art. For those interested in the works and ideas of these movements, and in the artistic consequences of the October Revolution in general, this sumptuous publication offers fascinating insights and a comprehensive overview. AUTHORS: Michael Baumgartner is the Director of Art and Collection at the Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern.
Kathleen Buhler is the Curator of Contemporary Art at the Kunstmuseum Bern