Transformation : art in East-Central Europe since 1989 / Andrzej Szczerski ; translated by Sabina Potaczek-Jasionowicz

Translated from Polish

Includes bibliographical references (pages [205]-206) and index

"The year 1989 marked the end of one era and the beginning of another--the period of postcommunist transformation. Similar processes were taking place in other former Eastern Bloc countries that were declaring free elections, reclaiming full sovereignty, building democracy, and completely changing their economies in favor of free market capitalism. The several historic months in the latter half of 1989 came to be known as the 'Autumn of Nations' and ushered in the total liberation of East-Central Europe from Soviet domination. Less than two years later, the Soviet Union itself collapsed, signaling the end of the Cold War in Europe. The new era brought not only political and economic changes, but also cultural ones which would lead to reclaiming individual liberties and other civil rights, as well as to the rebuilding of national identities within the European community which could now, finally, encompass the entire continent. Culture became a moving force for change, as censorship was abolished, monuments to communist heroes were removed, and streets renamed"--Columbia University Press website