NEW PERSPECTIVES ON THE OLYMPICS

Everyone is currently talking about it: the 2024 Olympics in Paris. This oldest and most prestigious international sports competition not only inspires with the outstanding performances of the athletes, but also with a rich supporting programme, including the highly acclaimed opening ceremony.

The architectural and aesthetic design of the Olympic Games and their diverse cultural programme offer a fascinating field of research for cultural history. Valuable insights into the respective social constitution can be gained from these events. 

  

Otto Piene, Regenbogen, Closing ceremony ofthe XX. Olympic Games in Munich, 11. September 1972 (Execution; Winzen Research, St. Paul, MN, USA)

It is less well known that the 1972 Munich Olympics were characterised by visionary artists such as Walter de Maria, Gerhard Richter, Andy Warhol and Dan Flavin. These creative minds developed revolutionary concepts, many of which remained unrealised after the tragic attack on Israeli athletes.

 

Lothar Wolleh, Heinz Mack: Wasserwolke, 1972

Art and Society 1972-2022-2072 offers the first comprehensive insight into the diverse cultural programme of that time and at the same time ventures a look into the future in order to shed light on the importance of art for a democratic society.

 

The book brings together voices from all over the world and shows in an impressive way how the visions of the past shape the present and the future. The book invites you to explore and understand the role of art in creating a better, more democratic society.


Discover the fascinating connection between art and the Olympics and be inspired by the innovative concepts that demonstrate the power of art to shape our future.

Header image: Calippo Schmutz, Mein Leben als Speerwerfer, Performance (unfinished) at the TAM-TAMOlympiatour by Matthias Stadler, 20222

Veröffentlicht am: 30.07.2024