American Perspectives on Modernism

American Perspectives on Modernism

August 13 - October 19, 2018

Drawn from the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts collection, this exhibition included works by American modernists including Stuart Davis, Marsden Hartley, John Marin, Charles Sheeler, Max Weber and others. Responding to the artistic developments in Europe, these artists sought new ways to picture the rapidly changing times of the early 20th century.

The Modernist dictate was to “make it new,” to look beyond appearances for an essential truth in things. Honest, forthright expression was a longstanding American artistic tradition, and American Modernists felt even the most ordinary things could be transformed through fresh eyes and the imagination. 

An opening reception was held August 17, 2018. A gallery talk was provided by Dr. Jen Padgett, Assistant Curator at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas.