Conceptual Art in Britain, 1964–1979

"All the work of the 1970s involved a kind of doubling; there was the world of the everyday and there was the world of the represented... a sense of our experiential worlds becoming bifurcated between image and reality." – John Stezaker

Conceptual Art in Britain, 1964–1979 is the first publication to explore the rich history of conceptual art in Britain during its most exciting and innovative period, from the mid-1960s to the election of Margaret Thatcher in 1979. The book examines how the early works of this period challenged art's traditional boundaries. By the mid-1970s, focus had shifted from matters of art and individual experience towards questions of politics and identity, using the languages of documentary, propaganda, and advertising for activism.

After introducing readers to the origins of this radical moment in British art, Conceptual Art in Britain, 1964–1979 explores the textual work of Art & Language, Victor Burgin, and others. It also delves into the 'New Sculpture' created by artists like Richard Long and Michael Craig-Martin, who questioned the traditional art object. Furthermore, the book examines artists who addressed societal and political issues, including Stephen Willats and Margaret Harrison.

A final chapter highlights the essential role of photography, film, and print, revealing them as key modes of dissemination and international exchange with Europe and America. Essays are enriched with in-focus texts on significant works and previously unpublished archival material. Featuring contributions from experts in the field, this book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone interested in the subject.