Mid-Century Modernism and the American Body

[An] insightful new book . . . [Mid-Century Modernism and the America Body] points out how many midcentury furnishings and magazine advertisements used demeaning images of women and people of color. The book highlights undeservedly obscure Black designers as well. ---Eve M. Kahn, New York Times Midcentury modernism isn't merely a style characterized by clean lines, open floor plans, graphic use of color, and overt minimalism. Overtones of the movement are both radical and racial, argues author Kristina Wilson, making heretofore largely unexplored connections between race, gender, and modernist decor. Wilson [is] uniquely qualified to chart the journey. ---Katherine Burns Olson, ArchitecturalDigest.com Mid-Century Modernism and the American Body gives the ubiquitous decorating style the historical context it deserves. ---Rebecca Onion, Slate Mid-Century Modernism and the American Body by Kristina Wilson critiques the Fifties through: books/magazines, home/furniture designs, manufactured Kitsch, which consumers purchased or at least lusted after...[The book] is a worthwhile read ---Jean Bundy, Anchorage Press A provocative analysis of race and gender during the Modernist movement in postwar America. Written in accessible language, yet supported by notable scholarly sources, Mid-Century Modernism and the American Body is a compelling read for the design student, mid-century enthusiast, and those interested in historical revisionism...A fascinating and important read for a popular audience. ---Erika Balcombe, Spacing Vancouver Tantalizingly illustrated with over 150 images taken from diverse design sources, Wilson's book offers a beautiful and destabilizing counter-history of modernism that forces us to reconsider the sources and motivations behind the decorative revivalisms we hold dear. ---Kate Burnett Budzyn, Decorative Arts Trust Bulletin Wilson's deep knowledge of and scholarship in modern design are evident in this book's precisely articulated argument. . . . Wilson's archival research and careful interrogation of relevant texts and images compels readers to see the powerful messages embedded in marketing materials in a fresh way. . . . Essential reading for students of sociology as well as design. * Library Journal *