Criticisms of racism in art (2001-2021): The Weltmuseum Wien re: present unlearning racism exhibition

This study focuses on the exhibition Re: Present Unlearning Racism at the Weltmuseum Vienna between August 8, 2021, and March 1, 2002, within the frame of critiques of racism in art. In the focus of the exhibition in question, which is addressed especially in the developments between 2001 and 2021, artworks that criticize racism in art are examined from a multi-faceted, historical perspective. As a starting point, the September 11, 2001, terrorist attack is taken as a reference point. This date not only reshaped global politics but also marked the beginning of an important period in which issues of racism and discrimination came to the fore. Here, to better understand the period and the artworks in the exhibition, the concept of racism is first discussed, the history of racism in Europe and America before 2001 is reviewed in general, and studies on racism in art are examined. In parallel with the developments of 2001–2021, the elements enabling the establishment of connections between art and racism are highlighted, and some artists who stand out with their works against racism are discussed. Within this historical perspective, the Re: Present Unlearning Racism exhibition was evaluated in detail, and twelve artists and their works were discussed