The Decline of Modern Art's Edge: Has Acceptance Become Too Comfortable?

The once-revolutionary landscape of modern art has given way to a more approachable, comfortable, and even placid existence. Despite some dissent, the Turner Prize presentation this year only served to reinforce the notion that modern art has lost its edge. The winner, Simon Starling, was praised for his "research-based art," a label that exudes respectability rather than radicalism.

Key Takeaways:

The notion of modern art's inherent radicalism has seemingly evaporated, replaced by a more mainstream and comfortable existence.
A generation of artists has emerged who have no link to the great revolutionary modernist narrative, instead producing art that is more about meeting expectations than challenging the status quo.
The rise of grants, scholarships, and residencies has neutralized modern art's radicalism, turning it into a more approachable and respectable form of expression.
The reluctance of artists to challenge the established order is exemplified by the Turner Prize nominees' contented and at-ease demeanor during the presentation.
The shift away from bohemianism and revolution is evident in the difference between the younger and older generations of artists, with the latter embodying a more respectable and stable life.
The decision to interview Darren Almond in his well-appointed kitchen instead of a more radical setting highlights the changing values of modern art.

Statistics:

The 1970s marked the time when modern art was absorbed into the mainstream, with grants, scholarships, and residencies becoming more plentiful.
The number of art students who participate in residencies and grants has increased significantly over the past few decades, contributing to the neutralization of modern art's radicalism.
The proportion of modern artists who identify as "research-based" artists has grown, further contributing to the decline of modern art's edge.

Sources:

(Source extensively quoted, no specific details provided)