During the 1950s, Gamal Abdul Nasser dominated the political life of the Middle East. The Egyptian regime gave content to Arab desires for greater unity and reduction of external influences. The ideals of autonomy and progressive reform resonated throughout the region that had only recently achieved its formal independence. This was the age of Nasserism as Egypt embodied the Arab nationalists' hopes and calls for the construction of a new society. No one understood the power and appeal of Egypt better than President Dwight Eisenhower. Employing many declassified American and British...

This book examines the impact of states and their policies on visual art. States shape the role of art and artists in society, influence the development of audiences, support artistic work, and even affect the very nature of artistic production. The book contrasts developments in the United States with art policies in Britain and in the social democratic states of Norway and Sweden. In addition, it analyzes revealing transitions - the changes brought about in East Germany after unification and the experiences of artists who left the Soviet Union for the west. The result is a significant...

This book examines the impact of states and their policies on visual art. States shape the role of art and artists in society, influence the development of audiences, support artistic work, and even affect the very nature of artistic production.