Engineer, Agitator, Constructor

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The modernist avant-gardes, from Dada to constructivism, transformed their roles as artists into those of propagandists, advertisers, and curators, creating new visual languages for a dramatically changed world. Hannah Höch articulated this shift in the 1920s and '30s, emphasizing an engineering approach to artmaking. This reinvention of artistic roles coincided with significant industrial, technological, and societal changes, influenced by events like World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the rise of fascism. Highlighting key figures such as Aleksandr Rodchenko, Lyubov Popova, and John Heartfield, the work showcases how artists redefined their contributions to create dynamic art. These "engineers," "agitators," and "constructors" moved away from traditional painting and sculpture, developing innovative visual languages, notably photomontage, which involved remixing photographs and images from media. By engaging with broader audiences through various roles, they established new infrastructures for presenting and distributing their work. Accompanying a major exhibition, this exploration celebrates MoMA's recent acquisitions from the Merrill C. Berman Collection, featuring essays by scholars and artists that examine revolutionary art forms, the vital role of women in the avant-garde, and the interconnectedness of these artists across borders. The exhibition reflects the social engagement and experimental spirit of the earl