Att tänka konst

What is art? Many of us often find ourselves contemplating this question. Art is an ever-changing, inescapable part of our reality, affecting us whether we like it or not. It evades definition and insistently demands our attention, offering amazing experiences, but also teasing, chafing and provoking us. The very concept, forms and meanings of art are open to countless interpretations.

This anthology of essays by art researcher Maria Hirvi-Ijäs examines different approaches to art, its role in society, and its function as a form of knowledge. She reflects on the underlying essence of art both through theory and practical examples, through the work of artists such as Eija-Liisa Ahtila, Heikki Marila and the artist duo Linda & Aura. Although the eight essays vary in their contexts of discourse, they overlap thematically and ultimately deal with similar issues. The oldest essay in the book is from spring 2010 and the most recent was written early in 2024. This marks the first time they will be published in Swedish.