Book 'Painting in the 1980s: Reimagining the Medium' reviews art during that dynamic era

In the 1980s, conservatism prevailed in social, economic, and political life. Popular culture of the decade reflected and reacted to that conservatism, as well. For many, the embodiment of the ’80s was the yuppie – a baby boomer with a college education, a good-paying job and expensive taste. 

Art during that dynamic era is examined in new ways by the Atlanta-based scholar and curator Rosemary Cohane Erpf. Her recent book is “Painting in the 1980s: Reimagining the Medium.” She joined “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes via Zoom with Atlanta-based artist and Georgia State University professor Craig Drennen.

Interview highlights follow below.