Modernism - Charles Harrison

Modernism is a broad term, used generally to convey a faith in progress and a healthy scepticism for received ideas and traditional values. More specifically, the Modernist tendency has been associated with the main developments in art over the past 150 years, and with art's highest acheivements. However, those concerned with maintaining traditonal values in one form or another see Modernist art as merely one alternative among many, and perhaps even an empty or misguided one. This introduction therefore looks at Modernist art of the twentieth century, in order to show exactly what are the defining characteristics of modernism, and also looks at the critical reaction, both positive and negative, to such work.