Ep 2. Memory

In this episode of Art in the Twenty-First Century, titled "Memory", viewers are taken on a journey exploring the ways in which artists convey memory in their work. The episode is divided into three sections, each dedicated to a different artist and his or her unique approach to the theme of memory.

The first section features artist Susan Rothenberg and her stunning paintings. Rothenberg's style is characterized by bold brushstrokes and vibrant colors, and her work often reflects her own memories and experiences. Through interviews with the artist, viewers gain insight into her creative process and the ways in which she uses memory as a source of inspiration.

The second section focuses on the art of Mike Kelley, a groundbreaking artist whose work defies categorization. His installations, performances, and drawings often draw on his own memories of childhood and adolescence, exploring themes of trauma, sexuality, and identity. Through archival footage and interviews with Kelley's collaborators and friends, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the artist's complex and deeply personal work.

The final section of the episode features artist Hiroshi Sugimoto and his haunting photographs of abandoned movie theaters and drive-ins. Sugimoto's work explores themes of memory and nostalgia, and his stark black-and-white images seem to capture a sense of loss and transience. In interviews, Sugimoto discusses his own memories of going to the movies as a child, and the ways in which his work reflects a more universal sense of longing for the past.

Throughout the episode, viewers are challenged to consider their own relationship to memory, and the ways in which artists can help us to better understand and process our own experiences. With its mix of stunning art and insightful commentary, "Memory" is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art and the human experience.