Art21: Art in the Twenty-First Century

Four acclaimed artists mix pop culture with art history, creating new icons and monuments out of the everyday. Working across North America these artists honor the neglected and unexpected with their paintings, sculptures and films and give viewers the rare chance to see themselves represented in the contemporary art world. Includes Michelle Obama portrait painter Amy Sherald.

A group of acclaimed contemporary artists use history, science and politics as the raw material to create their potent works. Drawing on the tools of historians and scientists, these artist-investigators take deep dives into difficult subjects like the on-going exclusion of women and artists of color from major art institutions. Includes the legendary female artist collective Guerrilla Girls.

Four acclaimed contemporary artists look inside and outside their immediate social circles to find emotional connection and build community, creating poignant performances, sculptures, drawings and films. Resisting the growing isolation of life in the United States, the artists imagine new stories to tell about themselves and their communities. Includes celebrated filmmaker Miranda July.