The Arts in the West Since 1945
Arthur Marwick

Munira Mirza

This ambitiously titled book offers a useful, although brief, historical study of the arts in the West since the Second World War. Marwick skirts through visual arts, film, music, architecture and literature with confidence and ease, analysing these genres in relation to their social and political contexts.

The methodology of the book allows Marwick to trace key historical factors that have influenced the emergence of new artistic schools, in particular, the impact of the War and new technologies on artistic practice. He is especially good on Abstract Expressionism in America, explaining its little-known origins amongst the artists and philosophers of Europe. Marwick's examination of Germany coming to terms with its recent history is again balanced, insightful and supported by good examples of specific artists.

However, in a book of such scope and only three hundred pages, it is inevitable that there will be gaps. Marwick's pragmatic decision to include some fields, such as architecture, and exclude others, such as design, mean he is unable to give us a complete picture of the vibrant creative atmosphere of post-war Europe and America. Similarly, the historical analysis focuses on broader historical trends such as the growth of consumption, increasing sexual liberation and the new mantra, 'the personal is political', but it lacks enough detail of specific historical changes and their repercussions in the arts.

The up-to-date description of popular music and youth culture is refreshing but again, does not reveal much that is new or insightful about aesthetic development. As an historical introduction, this is a helpful book that contextualises artistic expression and makes good recommendations for further reading and exploration. If you are looking for a greater understanding of contemporary culture, this is a good place to start.

Arthur Marwick, The Arts in the West Since 1945 (Oxford Paperbacks 2002) £9.99 ISBN: 0192892665