Sherrie Levine

Definition

Sherrie Levine is an influential American artist known for her work in the field of appropriation art, particularly during the postmodern era. Her art challenges traditional notions of originality and authorship by re-contextualizing existing images and objects, making viewers question the value and meaning of art in a culture saturated with reproductions. Levine's work is significant for its critique of the male-dominated art world and its exploration of feminist themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Levine gained significant attention in the 1980s for her series 'After Edward Weston,' where she re-photographed famous photographs by Weston, questioning the nature of originality.
2. Her work often features everyday objects and images, inviting viewers to reconsider their preconceived notions about art and artistic value.
3. Levine has been associated with the rise of feminist art, as she critiques gender roles within the art world and challenges the dominance of male artists.
4. One of her notable works is 'Newborn,' a reproduction of a classic sculpture by Constantin Brancusi, which questions the concept of authorship in art.
5. Through her artistic practice, Levine has played a pivotal role in redefining contemporary art's relationship with consumer culture and mass media.

Review Questions

• How does Sherrie Levine's work exemplify the principles of appropriation art?
  • Sherrie Levine's work exemplifies appropriation art through her practice of re-contextualizing existing images, such as re-photographing iconic photographs. By presenting these well-known works as her own, she forces viewers to confront issues surrounding originality and authorship. Levine’s approach highlights how contemporary artists can engage with historical works while simultaneously critiquing the very systems that uphold traditional definitions of artistic value.
• Discuss how Sherrie Levine's contributions to feminist art have influenced perceptions of gender within the contemporary art world.
  • Sherrie Levine's contributions to feminist art have significantly influenced perceptions of gender by challenging the male-centric narratives that dominated the art world. Her work often critiques the representation of women in art history while asserting that women's voices and experiences deserve equal recognition. By positioning herself within a dialogue that questions gender roles and expectations, Levine has helped pave the way for future generations of female artists who seek to disrupt traditional power dynamics.
• Evaluate the impact of Sherrie Levine's work on contemporary discussions about originality and authenticity in art.
  • Sherrie Levine's work has profoundly impacted contemporary discussions about originality and authenticity by challenging the very foundations on which these concepts are built. Through her appropriation of existing images, she poses critical questions about what it means to create art in an age dominated by mass reproduction and digital media. By confronting viewers with these questions, Levine encourages a reevaluation of how we define artistic value, pushing against established hierarchies within the art world and advocating for a more inclusive understanding of creativity.

Related terms

Appropriation Art: An art practice that involves taking existing works or images and reinterpreting or repurposing them in a new context, often to challenge ideas about originality and authorship.

Feminist Art: An art movement that seeks to address and represent women's experiences, perspectives, and issues within the art world and society as a whole.

Postmodernism: A broad movement in art, architecture, and culture that emerged in the late 20th century, characterized by skepticism towards grand narratives and an emphasis on relativism, irony, and playfulness.