King’s Co-Sponsors Book Launch for Dr. Daniel Siedell

The King’s College is pleased to co-sponsor, with Olmsted Salon, a celebration of Who’s Afraid of Modern Art?, the new book from Presidential Scholar and Art Historian in Residence Dr. Daniel Siedell. The event will take place on Wednesday, April 29 in The Cave at Calvary-St. George’s Episcopal Church in downtown Manhattan.

Who’s Afraid of Modern Art? features over thirty essays on such diverse artists as Andy Warhol, Thomas Kinkade, Diego Velázquez, Robyn O’Neil, Claudia Alvarez, and Andrei Rublev. Siedell offers a highly personal approach to modern art that is informed by nearly twenty years of experience as a museum curator, art historian, and educator. He combines his experience in the contemporary art world with a theological perspective that serves to deepen the experience of art, allowing the work of art to work as art, rather than a covert philosophy or theology or as visual illustrations of ideas, meanings, and worldviews. In his book, Siedell argues that art which emerges from and embraces pain and suffering can have surprising beauty, if only we take the time to listen.

“So much of Dr. Siedell’s research and writing on modern and contemporary art and its intersection with theology resonates with our students,” said Dr. Harry Bleattler, Associate Professor of History and Humanities and Chair of the Program in Media, Culture, and the Arts. “King’s is fortunate to have him in residence and we’re delighted to celebrate his new book release.”

The event will begin at 7:30pm with a wine reception, followed at 8:00pm with Siedell’s remarks on the book and a conversation between Siedell and artist Charley Friedman. The event will conclude with a period of time for questions and answers and a book signing. The event is open to the public, but attendees must reserve tickets through Eventbrite.