John Berger (1926-2017) was a British art critic, novelist, and poet. He is well-known for his contributions to the field of art criticism, particularly with his book "Ways of Seeing," which accompanied a BBC television series of the same name. In this influential work, Berger challenged traditional ways of understanding and interpreting art, emphasizing the social and political context in which it is created and consumed.
Berger's writing style was characterized by its accessibility and his ability to connect art to broader societal issues. He believed that art should not be seen as separate from society but rather as deeply intertwined with it. He argued that the act of looking at art involves a complex process of interpretation influenced by our cultural conditioning and personal experiences.
Beyond his insights into art, Berger also explored various other topics such as photography, literature, and the portrayal of women in visual culture. He engaged with Marxist ideas and examined how capitalism shapes our relationship to art and the world around us.
In addition to his critical work, Berger produced novels, essays, poetry, and screenplays. His writing often tackled political subjects, addressing themes of power, inequality, and resistance. Throughout his career, John Berger made significant contributions to the field of art criticism and left an indelible mark on the way we approach and understand art.
Chapter 1 What’s ways of seeing Ways of Seeing” by John Berger is a book that primarily focuses on the act of seeing and the impact it has on our pe... Read more.