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Michael Rush's 'L'art vidéo' Reviewed: Historical Approach to Video Art

opinion-review · 2026-04-23

Christophe Kihm reviews Michael Rush's book 'L'art vidéo', published by Thames & Hudson. The review critiques Rush's historical perspective on video art, noting that while it provides a useful overview, it relies on contradictory assumptions about the relationship between technology and aesthetics. Kihm praises the inclusion of lesser-known artists like Michael Smith but questions the omission of William Wegman. The review highlights the challenges of a linear, medium-specific history versus a transversal approach focused on artistic practices.

Key facts

  • Book title: L'art vidéo by Michael Rush
  • Publisher: Thames & Hudson
  • Reviewer: Christophe Kihm
  • Publication source: artpress
  • Date of review: November 1, 2003
  • Artist mentioned positively: Michael Smith
  • Artist omitted (noted): William Wegman
  • Review critiques historical approach as simplistic

Entities

Artists

  • Michael Rush
  • Michael Smith
  • William Wegman
  • Christophe Kihm

Institutions

  • Thames & Hudson
  • artpress

Sources