Historical Materialism Book Series Artists and Radicalism in Germany, 18901933

This book redefines the roots of German radicalism and the avant-garde, uncovering how professional politics linked early twentieth-century applied arts reform, the 'art proletariat,' and the nature of intellectual labor in capitalism. It casts new light on German modern art. Tracing the evolution of the German applied arts movement from 1890 through the interwar period, Artists and Radicalism in Germany, 1890-1933 reveals how reforms in artistic and vocational education intersected with the professional politics of radical artists and the nature of intellectual labour. Challenging conventional views, Pegioudis reinterprets the conflict between modern art's advocates and opponents, arguing that professional politics—not merely political ideologies—shaped the historical avant-garde. Developing a fresh perspective on the role of radicalism and avant-garde labour in the history of modern art, this book casts new light on German modern art and its interpreters.