Irrespective
November 2, 2018–March 3, 2019
One of the most influential American artists of her generation, Martha Rosler combines arresting imagery with incisive political commentary. Now on view at the Jewish Museum, Martha Rosler: Irrespective is the first US survey of her work in nearly 20 years.
From her feminist collages of the 1960s to her ongoing expositions on gentrification in her native Brooklyn, Rosler’s work reflects a passionate vision and deep commitment to art as a catalyst for social change. In addition to such well-known works as The Bowery in two inadequate descriptive systems (1974-75)—a landmark of Conceptual art that comprises photographs and texts and the darkly humorous video Semiotics of the Kitchen (1975)—the exhibition presents rarely seen installations created over the five decades of her career.
Rosler analyzes mass media, social history, and daily experience to formulate a singular critique of contemporary society and geopolitics. Animated by her keen eye and brisk wit, her work speaks to many contemporary concerns, exposing absurdities and injustices that might be taken for granted.
While never shying away from taking a principled position, Rosler’s work doesn’t offer easy solutions, either. Rather, it offers a series of open-ended propositions to help equip viewers to arrive at their own conclusions. Rosler’s groundbreaking fusion of artistic practice and social activism has paved the way for today’s artists, and the exhibition brings her work to a new generation of museum-goers.
Public program
Dialogue and Discourse: Martha Rosler and Darsie Alexander
Thursday, November 8, 6:30pm
Susan and Elihu Rose Chief Curator Darsie Alexander speaks with artist Martha Rosler on the occasion of her survey exhibition.
Free with Pay-What-You-Wish Admission; RSVP Recommended
The Jewish Museum is under the auspices of The Jewish Theological Seminary.
