Introduction
A Whitney, also known as a Whitney Biennial, is a prestigious exhibition of contemporary American art held at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. It showcases emerging and established artists, giving them a platform to present their work to a wide audience.
History of the Whitney
The Whitney Biennial was first held in 1932, making it one of the longest-running art exhibitions in the United States. It was established by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a prominent art collector and patron, who founded the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1931.
Criteria for Selection
- Artistic merit
- Relevance to contemporary American culture
- Innovation and experimentation
Examples of Whitneys
One of the most famous Whitneys was held in 2014, featuring artists such as Shara Hughes, Sterling Ruby, and Zoe Leonard. Another notable Whitney was in 2017, which showcased works by Dana Schutz, Raul de Nieves, and Samara Golden.
Case Study: 2019 Whitney Biennial
In 2019, the Whitney Biennial sparked controversy with the inclusion of Dana Schutz’s painting ‘Open Casket,’ which depicted the mutilated body of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy who was lynched in Mississippi in 1955. The painting ignited debates about cultural appropriation and the ethics of representing traumatic historical events.
Statistics
- Over 70% of artists featured in the Whitney Biennial are under the age of 40.
- The Whitney Biennial attracts over 400,000 visitors each year.
Conclusion
The Whitney Biennial continues to be a significant event in the art world, showcasing the diverse and dynamic landscape of contemporary American art. It serves as a platform for artists to engage with pressing social and cultural issues, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
