Art21 - Art in the 21st Century Season 5 Episode 4 Systems

Art21 - Art in the 21st Century is an American documentary series showcasing contemporary art and artists from around the world. Season five, episode four titled Systems, delves into the ways in which artists explore the systems that shape our world, from societal structures to environmental ecosystems.

The episode features three diverse and innovative artists, each exploring systems in their unique perspectives and mediums.

The first artist featured is Mark Bradford, a Los Angeles-based artist known for his large-scale paintings and installations. Bradford looks at the economic and social systems that shape the world, exploring how wealth, power, and inequality impact daily life. The episode follows Bradford as he builds a massive installation made entirely of paper, an exploration of how economic systems can fluctuate and collapse.

Next up is the Brooklyn-based artist, Allan McCollum, who focuses on the systems created by mass production and consumerism. McCollum develops large-scale installations of mass-produced items, such as ceramics, that are presented in a way that questions individuality and originality. The episode tracks McCollum as he launches an exhibition that explores the role of art in a culture consumed by mass-produced goods.

Finally, the episode turns to Los Angeles-based artist, Julie Mehretu. Mehretu creates abstract paintings that explore the complex systems of our natural and built environments. Her work uses layers of lines and colors to depict the interconnectedness of architecture, city planning, and human activity. The episode follows Mehretu as she creates new works inspired by the shifting landscape of the Detroit cityscape, and the changing systems that have shaped the city's future.

Throughout the episode, the artists' work and ideas are interwoven with interviews and commentary from art critics and curators. These segments provide a deeper understanding of the artists' intentions and how their work fits into the larger contemporary art world.

Overall, Art21 - Art in the 21st Century season 5 episode 4 titled Systems is a fascinating exploration of how contemporary artists engage with the interconnected systems that shape our world. From economic inequality to mass production and urban planning, this episode showcases how artists can offer unique perspectives and critiques on the complex structures that impact our daily lives.