Reflecting on the 2010s: What Will Remain of the Decade That Ends with Cattelan's Banana?
Massimiliano Tonelli, editor of Artribune, reflects on the concept of the decade as the 2010s come to a close. He notes that while past decades like the 1930s, 1960s, and 1980s have clear identities, the 2010s and the preceding 'Noughties' lack a defined character. Tonelli questions what will remain of the 2010s in art, design, architecture, theater, comics, and music, suggesting that the ability to perceive the passage of years has been lost. He acknowledges that dividing time by decades is a 20th-century simplification, but argues that such simplifications are useful for understanding the past and anticipating the future. The article concludes with a wish for a productive 2020s and an invitation to readers to consider the legacy of the creative languages of the decade.
Key facts
- The article is an editorial by Massimiliano Tonelli published on Artribune in December 2019.
- Tonelli reflects on the identity of the 2010s decade in art, design, architecture, theater, comics, and music.
- He contrasts the clear identities of past decades (1930s-1990s) with the vague character of the 2010s and 2000s.
- The article questions what will remain of the 2010s and suggests a loss of ability to perceive the passage of years.
- Tonelli argues that decade-based simplification, though 20th-century, is useful for understanding and prediction.
- The editorial is featured in Artribune Magazine #52.
- The article references Maurizio Cattelan's banana artwork as a symbol of the decade's end.
- Tonelli wishes readers a productive 2020s and invites reflection on the decade's creative contributions.
Entities
Artists
- Maurizio Cattelan
- Massimiliano Tonelli
Institutions
- Artribune
- Artribune Magazine
- Exibart
- Gambero Rosso
- Università di Siena