The Language of Objects in the Art of the Americas

In this wide-ranging book, a distinguished scholar of Latin American art explores the meanings of created and depicted objects from the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking regions of the New World. Edward J. Sullivan begins with objects exchanged during encounters between indigenous peoples of the Americas and newly-arrived Europeans, and he pursues the discussion to the present day, as artists engage in breaking down constructed concepts of "Latin American-ness." Sullivan's scope is sweepingthe changing meanings of objects over five centuriesand he encourages deeper conversation about the complexities of today's culture of the Americas. From American-made handicrafts displayed in Old World curiosity cabinets, to still life paintings projecting a Latin American nation's proud self-image, to 20th-century "found objects" identified as works of art, objects from the Americas provide a wealth of cultural insights. This generously illustrated volume invites the reader to travel across time and national boundaries to examine an array of these extraordinary and meaningful objects.

Edward J. Sullivan is dean of the humanities and professor of fine arts at New York University and the Institute for Fine Arts. He is the author of several books on Latin American art, including the popular textbook Latin American Art in the Twentieth Century.