Sherrie Levine

Definition

Sherrie Levine is an influential American artist known for her work in appropriation art, where she recontextualizes existing artworks to challenge concepts of originality and authorship. Her practice critiques the commodification of art and questions cultural narratives by transforming established works into new contexts, often highlighting issues of gender and representation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sherrie Levine gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s as part of the postmodern art movement, specifically through her series of rephotographed works that engage with famous photographers like Edward Weston.
2. Her piece 'After Edward Weston' (1981) is a well-known example where she appropriates a photograph, highlighting the blurred lines between original creation and reproduction.
3. Levine's work often emphasizes the role of women in art history, critiquing the male gaze and advocating for greater representation of female artists.
4. Through her art, Levine encourages viewers to reflect on the impact of mass media and consumer culture on artistic production and value.
5. Her contributions have sparked discussions about intellectual property and copyright in contemporary art, making her a significant figure in debates surrounding ownership in the digital age.

Review Questions

• How does Sherrie Levine's use of appropriation challenge traditional notions of originality in art?
  • Sherrie Levine's approach to appropriation directly challenges traditional notions of originality by recontextualizing existing artworks rather than creating something entirely new. By taking well-known photographs and transforming them into her own works, Levine questions the very idea of authorship and authenticity in art. This practice encourages viewers to reconsider what it means to create art and how cultural value is assigned to images.
• In what ways does Levine's work intersect with feminist critiques of representation in the art world?
  • Levine's work intersects with feminist critiques by addressing issues of representation, particularly regarding female artists and subjects. By appropriating works that have historically been dominated by male perspectives, she challenges the male gaze and seeks to redefine women's roles within art history. Her focus on reinterpreting significant images highlights the need for greater visibility and acknowledgment of female experiences in both the creation and appreciation of art.
• Evaluate how Sherrie Levine's practices reflect broader cultural discussions around copyright and intellectual property in today's digital age.
  • Sherrie Levine's practices serve as a critical lens through which to evaluate broader cultural discussions surrounding copyright and intellectual property in today's digital age. Her use of appropriation raises important questions about ownership in an era where images can be easily replicated and shared online. By challenging conventional ideas about artistic authorship, Levine invites ongoing debates about the implications of copying, remixing, and distribution in contemporary culture, ultimately advocating for a more nuanced understanding of creativity in a digital landscape.

Related terms

Appropriation Art: An art movement where artists take pre-existing objects or images and rework them into new artworks, questioning the notions of originality and ownership.

Postmodernism: A broad movement in art, literature, and culture that emerged in the late 20th century, characterized by a skeptical, self-aware approach to traditional forms and narratives.

Feminist Art: A movement that emerged in the 1970s focusing on women's experiences and perspectives in art, challenging the male-dominated art world and promoting gender equality.