Reads and Zines with The Science of Culture and the Phenomenology of Styles

In The Science of Culture and the Phenomenology of Styles, Renato Barilli examines the history of artistic style in relation to scientific discovery. Applying an innovative analysis, he illustrates the subtle, yet intrinsic, connection between paradigm shifts in the sciences and in the arts. 

Throughout the book Barilli argues that there are connections between specific discoveries or inventions and revolutionary advances in artistic techniques. He draws upon the pioneering work of Lucien Goldman, as well as the theories of Luciano Anceschi and Marshall McLuhan in order to reassess conventional modes of dividing art history into such periods as modern, contemporary, and postmodern. By correlating moments such as the invention of the printing press and the internal combustion engine with canonical periods in the evolution of art, Barilli unearths conceptual links across domains and disciplines. In doing so, Barilli connects fields to create a more comprehensive idea of historical discovery.

For more information on Barilli’s book published by McGill-Queen’s University Press, click here.

[text from McGill-Queen’s University Press]

- Lee Jones