On Wisconsin, Part II: Highlights from the Chazen Museum
It may be impossible to speak of a worldwide style of art, and instead we must contend with diverse methods, processes and aesthetics of visual art. But within this wide range, it does seem that some places in the world have special relationships with their environments, developing their own kind of aesthetics. Wisconsin is one such place, with its harsh winters and broad farm fields, historic links with progressive and conservative politics, rich Native American histories, and glaciated landforms. Wisconsin art tends to be thoughtful, sometimes a bit wacky and surreal, and almost always meticulously crafted. There’s no better place to gain these sensibilities than at the Chazen Museum of Art (formerly the Elvejhem). For me it’s always a delight to visit this museum, indeed I grew up in Madison and often frequented the collection. What are some of the highlights in 2012?
