Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Robert Hughes
I just heard the tail end of an NPR interview with art critic Robert Hughes. Hughes has a convivial, forthright manner that is very winning. But what really gains him points is that he is a writer and is wedded to the truth of his reactions — and he has the talent to communicate those reactions. His declamatory style is that of a blustery old frog, like Chris Mathews; there isn't a feeling of much nuance in his public utterances. I'd also like to hear more insight, rather than an elevated version of thumbs up/thumbs down.
Hughes was a painter, always a benefit for a critic to have had that experience of actual involvement, and it informs his judgments, making him a useful player in the inbred world of artspeak. In the interview, discussing German art, he elevated Kiefer and disparaged Baselitz, saying Kiefer was serious and often accomplished while Baselitz was “kitsch”. Kiefer has always seemed to me redolent of the grandiosity in much of German culture, but nevertheless, Kiefer's talents are more varied than Baselitz, who isn't as Hughes says a kitsch-meister; but Hughes is correct that often Baselitz' attempt to be authentic by employing crude technique doesn't work.
It is great hearing art discussed with such verve and involvement.
This article about Hughes is interesting in its personal angle.
Here is an interchange with his wife about changes in Hughes' personality after a terrible car accident:
“I would say you were the same way you are now, but without the injuries,” Ms. Downes says. “From someone who has such confidence, it is incredible how insecure you are of your own talents.”
“How sweet of you,” Mr. Hughes says, with not a touch of irony.