Overview

Today Is Always Yesterday explores the historical constructs underlying contemporary art in Brazil. Michael Asbury, through his study of the South American nation's colonial and post-colonial condition, argues that art can not only illustrate history but activate it. The colours of the flag, a national emblem saturated with symbolism and which has become central to the culture wars of recent years, become devices to thematically structure the five chapters of the book. Asbury shows how artists have responded to cultural engagements and appropriations, and examines art's role in unravelling Brazil's foundational myths and its projected image as a racial melting pot. Richly illustrated, this book presents a compelling account of contemporary debates in Brazilian art.

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9781789148008

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Reviews

""Asbury challenges the cliché of national identity in Brazilian contemporary art by provocatively employing the national colors as metaphors. He provides essential historical context, critically deconstructing the themes and concepts examined within the pages of this compelling book.""--Ana Magalhães, Director, The Museum of Contemporary Art, University of São Paulo ""One of the strengths of Today is Always Yesterday lies precisely in showing the role that art plays in the formation and historical and cultural construction of a nation. . . . Its publication allows for important gaps in our historiography to be filled. Today is Always Yesterday has much to add to the debate and to the Brazilian art system overall.""--Mario Caillaux, Revista VIS

Author Information

Michael Asbury is a reader in the history and theory of art and deputy director of the Research Center for Transnational Art, Identity and Nation at the University of the Arts London. He has worked as a curator and art critic for over two decades.

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