Shifting patterns, zooming layers, focusing processes: art and anthropology in a transforming and translucent world

Abstract

This article offers an overview over the thriving field of (con)current art and anthropology collaborations in the domains of words as well as works. Introducing the exemplary contributions of artists, art historians, curators and anthropologists to this special edition I argue that in an ever transforming, politically contested and ecologically threatened world the two disciplines have the potential to zoom in on patterns, processes and layers of a textured and translucent reality that is far from being sufficiently understood or represented.