The Beat Generation were young, experimental artists, writers, musicians and intellectuals who grew up during World War Two and experienced difficulties with adjusting to the American Post-War community.
The period was defined by materialism, political and sexual censorship, rearmament politics, fear of the atomic bomb and the Cold War. The Beat group craved a warmer, friendlier, more humane climate and new spiritual content in their visual art, literature, music, alternative film and lifestyle.
Physical and emotional liberation was central in their striving towards a better future where people could relate to each other with openness, tolerance and tenderness.
As a counterweight to the bleak future proposed by politicians, they made an effort to live in touch with nature, engaged themselves in environmental protection, offered resistance against war and race discrimination, and fought for the freedom of speech, sexual liberation and openness in the community. The demands for freedom in life and art was a kernel in their practice.
This is where you can see the Beat-art at UiA
Parts of the Beat-art are on permanent exhibition in the B-building at UiA, ground, first and second floors, and, in addition, works are exhibited in Vilhelm Krag’s Hall (‘Vrimlehallen’) and the Library.
You can also see photos of the Beat-art collection on Facebook