On Slowness: Toward an Aesthetic of the Contemporary

Lutz Koepnick's book, On Slowness: Toward an Aesthetic of the Contemporary, published by Columbia University Press in October 2014, presents a thought-provoking examination of slowness as a critical aesthetic in contemporary culture. Koepnick challenges traditional notions that often prioritize speed and immediacy, proposing instead that slowness serves as a modern strategy for engaging with art and life.

Overview

The book is structured into an introduction, an epilogue, and eight chapters. Each chapter typically pairs two contemporary practitioners or artworks, allowing for a comparative analysis that highlights the significance of slowness in various contexts. This approach not only critiques the fast-paced nature of contemporary society but also emphasizes the value of deceleration and reflection in artistic practices.

Key Themes

Slowness as Strategy: Koepnick argues that slowness is not merely a reaction against modernity but a deliberate strategy that can enrich our understanding of contemporary art and culture.

Artistic Practices: The text delves into how different artists and artworks embody the principles of slowness, inviting readers to reconsider their perceptions of time and engagement in the artistic process.

Cultural Critique: By examining slowness, Koepnick critiques the societal emphasis on speed, urging a reevaluation of how we experience and interpret contemporary life.

Author Background

Lutz Koepnick is the Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Professor of German and Cinema and Media Arts at Vanderbilt University, where he focuses on the intersections of media, culture, and aesthetics. His expertise lends authority to the discussions presented in the book, making it a significant contribution to contemporary philosophical and critical discourse