Being an Artist in Post-Fordist Times

Book excerpt: In his contribution to this publication the Italian philosopher Paolo Virno argues that art has been dissolved in society like an effervescent tablet in water. The arts have become an essential component of the post-Fordist production process and have to a large degree lost their autonomy. Taking up the challenge of the views of Virno, Hardt and others concerning the place and function of art in society, this book's authors consult high-profile international figures from various artistic disciplines and endeavour to gain insight into the changing circumstances in which today's creative processes arise and take shape. "Arts in society" sketches a provocative impression of the manner in which prominent artists, theorists and art intermediaries relate to economic, political, social and ecological issues. It presents an instructive narrative about power and impotence, cynicism and utopia, and nihilism and engagement aimed at all those who presently dare to call themselves artists and everyone who wants to understand the importance of arts.