I loved the Gagosian piece, mostly for the gossip and for the previously noted one-liners from PRK.
One theme that didn’t get much direct interrogation, but that I’ve been mulling, is the myth of meritocracy in creative fields. Because the valuation of art is so clearly and in many ways inescapably subjective, it provides cover for nepotism and croneyism in a way that can be at least somewhat corrected for by those willing to do the work in other fields.
Gagosian’s girlfriend and the discussion around the access their relationship has given her so early in her career brings this home. Of course dating him has helped her succeed. But access to Gagosian and others like him--and/or to museums, art critics, etc.--however it comes about, will always be the reason an artist succeeds, whether it’s through a romantic relationship or family or the privilege of affording the huge price tag for a degree from RISD.
I thought the Gagosian piece would never end. And every page told the same story as the page before. While I agree with many of your comments, a little bit of judicious editing could have told the same seamy story faster and with even more of a punch. I was so happy when it was over - and of course, I read the whole damn thing, because, well, it seems to be what I do. Im really enjoying your publication.
I loved the Gagosian piece, mostly for the gossip and for the previously noted one-liners from PRK.
One theme that didn’t get much direct interrogation, but that I’ve been mulling, is the myth of meritocracy in creative fields. Because the valuation of art is so clearly and in many ways inescapably subjective, it provides cover for nepotism and croneyism in a way that can be at least somewhat corrected for by those willing to do the work in other fields.
Gagosian’s girlfriend and the discussion around the access their relationship has given her so early in her career brings this home. Of course dating him has helped her succeed. But access to Gagosian and others like him--and/or to museums, art critics, etc.--however it comes about, will always be the reason an artist succeeds, whether it’s through a romantic relationship or family or the privilege of affording the huge price tag for a degree from RISD.
I thought the Gagosian piece would never end. And every page told the same story as the page before. While I agree with many of your comments, a little bit of judicious editing could have told the same seamy story faster and with even more of a punch. I was so happy when it was over - and of course, I read the whole damn thing, because, well, it seems to be what I do. Im really enjoying your publication.