What is an artist? This was the question on the forefront of Sarah Thornton’s mind as she researched and wrote 33 Artists in 3 Acts, a book that delves into the complex lives of the most important living artists of today.
Thornton, an accomplished author, sociologist of art, art correspondent and frequent guest speaker, visits MIAD on Wednesday, November 18 to speak about 33 Artists in 3 Acts, and to discuss other topics relating to today’s complex art world.
October 9 update: Sarah Thornton’s talk has been canceled due to a family emergency. There are no current plans to reschedule.
Thornton has spent years exploring the inner workings of today’s art world, offering immense insight into the reality of being an artist today. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in art history, Thornton went on to attain her Ph.D. in sociology, publishing her well-known doctoral case study Club Cultures: Music, Media and Subcultural Capital, which examines the “hierarchies of coolness” by studying club culture and raves.
She has since continued to combine her passions for art and sociology, writing the best-selling book, Seven Days in the Art World, followed by her most recent book, 33 Artists in 3 Acts, in which Thornton gives a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of the world’s most important living artists. The “3 Acts” in the title represents the three sections – or acts – of the book: politics, kinship and craft. Artists ranging from Jeff Koons to Yayoi Kusama are featured, offering a glimpse into the world of contemporary art.
Thornton will be available for Q&A after the presentation, as well as to sign copies of her book.
For more information about Thornton, click here.
