Disturbing the Piece

This Spooktacular episode is the finale of my October trilogy. We’re closing out the month with the scariest topic of all – haunted art. From artwork that will burn your house down to sculptures that are out for blood. To discuss this terrifying topic, I have Erin back on the podcast.View images we discussed on the website - www.donottouchblog.com/podcast/haunted-art-trick-or-treat-specialSupport the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

We’re turning our attention to the magical side of art history. When we think of the Harry Potter series, whether it’s the books or films, a very specific aesthetic comes to mind. J.K. Rowling’s world is full of castles, cauldrons, and cloaks. A very specific aesthetic comes to mind when we think of Hogwarts and the wizarding world. What aspects of art history does Rowling draw from and where does she deviate from tradition?My two guests this week are Larisa Grollemond, Assistant Curator of Manuscripts at the J. Paul Getty Museum, and M.E. Warlick, Professor Emeritus at the University of Denver.View images we discussed on the website - www.donottouchblog.com/podcast/harry-potter-and-art-historySupport the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

We’re pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human in posthuman art. When the human organism is not entirely organic anymore what do we define as human and when does it become machine? We’ll answer this along with the basics - what is the movement and where did it originate?Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

Presidents, and generals, and mountains. Oh my! After realizing the wide scope of monuments, Erin and I look at the history of American monuments from the 19th century onward. We talk about the concept of monuments and their permanence. Plus, I announce some exciting news at the end of the episode.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

I’m answering the age-old question: what is Romanticism? The word romantic is used to describe everything from movies to greeting cards. But what does it mean when describing art? Specifically, when using the capital “R” Romantic. Get ready for some awe and terror…Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

In this episode, Erin and I discuss another art history classic. If you only think of flowers and fruit when you think of still life you’ve only heard the basics. We look back to ancient still lifes, follow them through their heyday in the 17th century Europe, and then examine how they’ve evolved into modern times.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

In the summer of 1937, two art exhibits were on display in Munich, Germany. One glorified the German state while the other was created with the intention of shaming and debasing the artwork on display. The art included in the latter now has the title of modern masterpiece. However, during the 1930s it, and the infamous exhibit, were known as “Degenerate.”In this series, I’ll examine an exhibit that’s had a lasting impression on art history. Maybe it galvanized a movement or maybe it was too radical for its time. Whatever the outcome brought us to where we are today.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

When I say Iconoclasm, you may immediately start thinking of faceless sculptures and the Byzantine Empire. But what if I today you that Iconoclasm is still alive and practiced today? Erin and I give you a short history lesson behind the movement and then transition into modern examples.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

Once an abandon military base in West Texas, Marfa is now a modern-day art pilgrimage site. Thanks to artist Donald Judd the Chinati Foundation unites art, buildings, and the natural environment. I visited the site and traveled to the Judd Foundation’s Spring Street location to speak to Director of Marfa Programs & Archivist, Caitlin Murray about the artist who decided to forgo the traditional route and embrace a new possibility for displaying his art.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

What happens when you’re colorblind in the art world? A look at artists and an art historian who work with colorblindness. My guest this episode is Assistant Professor of Art History at Manhattan College (and my former professor), Marisa Lerer.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

Erin and I talk about a subject that fascinates us both – infectious diseases in art history. Inspired by “This Podcast Will Kill You,” we sip a quarantini and discuss the depiction of four major diseases throughout the history of art and look at early medical illustrations. Join us for a squeamish journey from the 1300s to present day.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

We’re back with another Exhibit Revisit episode. This time we’re looking at the China Avant-Garde exhibit of 1989 (otherwise known as “No U-Turn”) at the National Art Museum in Beijing. This exhibit was a watershed moment between two phases of contemporary Chinese art. We’ll examine why it was so controversial and which artists caused the most trouble with the censorship committee.In this series, I’ll examine an exhibit that’s had a lasting impression on art history. Maybe it galvanized a movement or maybe it was too radical for its time. Whatever the outcome – the decisions made, the artists included or excluded – brought us to where we are today.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

What’s art history without the inclusion of female artists? My guest explains why a complete picture of history is impossible when you view it through the dominant narrative instead of hearing a plurality of voices. Associate Curator, Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art, Brooklyn Museum and co-curator of “Half the Picture: A Feminist Look at the Collection,” Carmen Hermo.Carmen talks with me about the exhibit (at the Brooklyn Museum through March 31, 2019), the themes that are still relevant today, how we grapple with it and try to do better moving forward. With Artsy writing just last week that “A study found that 85% of artists in U.S. museum collections are white, and 87% are male,” the exhibit seems timelier than ever.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

In this special episode of the podcast, I speak with Dan Gilroy about his latest movie, Velvet Buzzsaw. Set in the contemporary art world of L.A., the film follows 8 characters through the discovery of an outsider artist’s secret body of work, their rise to fame as it’s distributed, and the meteoric fall they all must inevitably face for doing so.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

I have Catherine Couturier on the podcast to talk about the ins and outs of running a for-profit art gallery. Having worked in the non-profit sector, I was curious about how this industry operated, and Catherine delivered. We get into the challenges of the job, how artists can successfully work with galleries, and why you should be embracing your inner prom queen. Catherine is the owner and director of Catherine Couturier Gallery in Houston, TX.Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

A listener suggestion episode! What is Americana? Stephanie delves into our complicated national identity to discover how its shaped art history. We look at the period of the 1920s to 1940s as the origin of this distinct style. From Abstraction to early Pop Art to Regionalism, everyone had an opinion as to what should define “American.”Support the show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DisturbingthePiece

I have Erin back on the podcast to help me define what makes a blockbuster exhibit (not the extinct video store). Will look at when they came into vogue and why museums seem to rely on them more and more. Are these money makers making art museums great again or are they a sign of a slow death? We don’t have all the answers, but we will get into the controversy surrounding these mega exhibits.

What goes into creating an art history textbook? That’s what I wanted to find out in today’s episode. I’m speaking with Dr. Michael Cothren, editor of the Stokstad survey textbooks. Michael and I spoke about finding the balance between writing for those who will major in art history and those who will end up only taking the survey course. He also talked about how the books were a serious departure from others on the market when Marilyn Stokstad first published them in 1995.

This episode features curator Risa Puleo and the exhibit Walls Turned Sideways: Artists Confront the Justice System at the Contemporary Art Museum Houston. From profiling to incarceration, Risa takes us through each step of the criminal justice system and how artists are responding to it.These episodes will give you background information on exhibits currently on display somewhere in the country. They are perfect if you want to know more about the artwork before going in, or if you’re curious and want to learn more about the topic.

I’ve got Erin back on the podcast to help me dissect the idea of the “artist as genius.” Since the rise of Romanticism in the 19th century, artists have been handed the baggage of genius. It’s common to hear tales of illegal activities and debauchery alongside artworks labeled “masterpiece.” Erin and I go into depth discussing the pros and cons of the idea, how the idea of genius is gendered, and wonder if you really can separate the artist from the finished product.

This August I took a trip to Mexico City. The museums and food were great but there was one site I couldn’t wait to see. Almost an hour outside of the city sits the remains of Teotihuacan. I knew a little about the site but wanted to talk with an expert. My guest today is Dr. Annabeth Headrick at the University of Denver. Even if you haven’t been to Mexico City (or don’t have plans to), this episode will provide insight into the culture that rivaled Ancient Rome.

An Exhibit Revisit episode just in time for Thanksgiving. The time of year when we gather with family, eat too much food, and maybe think about our nation’s founding. So how about we discuss that here with a 1991 exhibit organized by the National Museum of American Art. "The West as America" went on to enrage Republican Congressmen and resulted in four large comment books filled with visitor feedback.In this series, I’ll examine an exhibit that’s had a lasting impression on art history. Maybe it galvanized a movement or maybe it was too radical for its time. Whatever the outcome – the decisions made, the artists included or excluded – brought us to where we are today.

Today we’re going back to school and learning about Black Mountain College. Kate Averett, from the Black Mountain College Museum, and Professor Eva Diaz, from Pratt Institute, join me to flesh out the history of the college. We discuss the famous teachers (and students) at the school, different teaching styles, and how the college lives on despite being closed.

The one in which Stephanie talks with Wendel White about photography, archives, and finding the events of the past still very alive in the present. We discuss his series: “Schools for the Colored,” “Red Summer,” and “Manifest.” Wendel White is a photographer and professor of art at Stockton University.

After a short break – I’m back! And I’ve got one of my favorite guest hosts returning to help me discuss public and private museums. Erin and I touch on the history of how a museum’s collection is formed and then jump into the public vs private debate. Did you know there are collectors out there who have enough art in their Batman style bunkers to start their own museum?

In this new series, I’ll examine an exhibit that’s had a lasting impression on art history. Maybe it galvanized a movement or maybe it was too radical for its time. Whatever the outcome – the decisions made, the artists included or excluded – brought us to where we are today. We’re starting off with “The Family of Man” at the MoMA in 1955. The highest attended photography exhibit in history.

Today I’m speaking with a very special guest, artist Anila Quayyum Agha. I’ve admired Anila’s work for years and was thrilled when she agreed to be on the podcast. We discussed growing up in Pakistan, the power of an education and multicultural influence, and how the current political climate has affected her art.

No, we are not in the museum’s billing department. We’re going down to the museum basement to learn more about collections. Erin joins me to discuss the job of a collection manager. She gives her perspective on the job, characteristics of people working in the field, and divulges the scariest artwork she ever handled.

It’s the return of Exhibition Pre-Game! This time I’ve got Meagan with me and we’re traveling to Denver for “Jeffrey Gibson: Like a Hammer” at the Denver Art Museum. These episodes will give you background information on exhibits currently on display somewhere in the country. They are perfect if you want to know more about the artwork before going in, or if you are curious and want to learn more after coming out.

Laura is back! Today she's giving me a glimpse into the world of Post-Internet Art. Looking at art that hasn't made the history books yet is uncharted territory for all of us. What will stand the test of time and how will we remember this era? Laura shows me how artists are responding to and being shaped by the internet in their art.

We're closing out June with a discussion on gender in art. This topic could cover the entirety of art history, but we're traveling back to the nineteenth-century to see how artists and cultures define masculinity and femininity. Then we fast-forward to artists in the present day to see how artists are displaying complex and layered versions of gender.

Erin and I are jumping into the world of art heists. We discuss the biggest unsolved art theft, why the crime is ultimately unrewarding, and our dream job of working for the FBI. If we still haven’t convinced you to return stolen artwork by the end of this episode at least you’ll know to check your humidity levels.

Today I’m joined by Farrah to discuss an underappreciated facet of the museum world – archives. We talk about the misconception of the job, why it’s important for artist records, and how community participation is important for a well-rounded record. Join us as we follow these links down a Nicolas Cage-inspired adventure.

Is a painting still a painting if it has words in it? That's what we're talking about today. I'm giving you a brief background of the history of text in art and some contemporary examples of artists who utilize this aesthetic.

Is it art? This anxiety inducing question is what we're trying to answer in this week's episode! Meagan and Erin are back to help me dissect this topic and discuss some of the more controversial art that falls into this category from the last few decades.

The title says it all. It’s time for a Q&A! I’m answering some of the questions I get asked the most as well as some submitted by listeners. I’ve brought some familiar guests to help me answer them.

Have you ever stopped to think about the logistics behind that monumental sculpture you walk past or the murals you drive by on the way to work? I have Shannon on the podcast to explain the ins and outs of public art. She explains how public art can impact a community and our memory of a place, but also why public art commissions should be utilized by more artists.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to find a lost work of art, this episode is for you. I break down a few different stories of recently rediscovered art and offer insight as to why they may have gone missing in the first place. I also give some tips for the art sleuths who think they’ve uncovered a lost million-dollar masterpiece.

Meagan and I are joined by Erin to discuss the official, and unofficial, presidential portraits. The Obama portraits were at the top of our list, but we also looked back to discover where current trends in portraiture originated.

I’m back with another Exhibition Pre-Game! This time we’re traveling to Los Angeles to visit the Broad Museum’s ‘Jasper Johns: Something Resembling Truth.’ These episodes will give you background information on exhibits currently on display somewhere in the country. These episodes are perfect if you want to know more about the artwork before going in, or if you are curious and want to learn more after coming out.

I have Laura on the podcast to talk all things DIY art. This isn’t your mom’s scrapbook project. Laura gives me the history of the punk movement, what it’s like to be a woman in the male-dominated field, and where she sees it moving in the future.I have Laura on the podcast to talk all things DIY art. This isn’t your mom’s scrapbook project. Laura gives me the history of the punk movement, what it’s like to be a woman in the male-dominated field, and where she sees it moving in the future.

We’re traveling to New Mexico this week! Santa Fe, Abiquiú, and Ghost Ranch make up the holy trinity of O’Keeffe Country. At each of these stops, we’ll look at artwork that defines O’Keeffe’s legacy and why she’s remembered as one of the most remarkable artists of the 20th century.

How does light affect art? That’s the question we’re answering on today’s episode of ‘Disturbing the Piece.’ This is a lightning-fast tour of sculpture, architecture, and painting from 125 CE all the way to present day. We’ll examine moments in history that mark a turning point in the way artists manipulate light in their art.

Meagan is back! We’re hosting our own Award Show for the best (and worst) depictions of art related jobs in a feature film. And just like the Oscars, this episode will go on longer than originally anticipated. Join us as we give awards to best curator, conservator, professor, and more!

‘Josef Albers in Mexico’ is the first in our new series: Exhibition Pre-Game. These episodes will give you background information on exhibits currently on display somewhere in the country. Whether you’re an art historian or not, you’ll feel confident going in to the museum after listening. ‘Josef Albers in Mexico’ is on display at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City.

Today's co-host is Meagan! What has no term limit in the Oval Office? The artwork! Join us as we learn about what art has been on display in the Oval Office and how that becomes symbolic of a president's time behind the desk. We also delve into the art collection of our current POTUS – Donald Trump.

We’re looking back at some of art history’s famous best friends. Learn about our favorite Galentine’s – Leonora Carrington & Remedios Varo, Helen Frankenthaler & Grace Hartigan, and Frida Kahlo & Georgia O’Keeffe.

What would you do if you could transform into someone else? Would you dance? Bring members of your community together? Or would you call attention to social injustices? Nick Cave does all three with his soundsuit series. Join Stephanie as we look at the history behind the first soundsuit and what is still inspiring Cave to create them today.

Welcome to Disturbing the Piece! In this podcast, we take a look at art you may or may not be familiar with and reexamine its significance in our culture. For more info, and episode show notes, check out our website www.donottouchblog.com