Nothing if Not Critical

Nothing if Not Critical compiles art critic Robert Hughes' reviews and essays from the 1980s, covering both historical masters and contemporary artists. The pieces were originally published in publications like Time magazine and The New Republic. Hughes examines major figures like Caravaggio, Goya, and Picasso through fresh analyses of their work and cultural impact. His coverage of the 1980s New York art scene provides a snapshot of that era's market forces, trends, and key players. The writing balances technical art criticism with broader cultural commentary accessible to general readers. Hughes' frank assessments challenge conventional wisdom about certain artists and movements. The collection reveals how art criticism can illuminate the relationship between commerce, culture, and creativity across different historical periods. Through his unsparing perspective, Hughes demonstrates criticism's role as both arbiter of artistic merit and reflection of societal values.

Readers value Hughes' sharp wit and uncompromising criticism of modern art and artists. Many note his ability to demolish overvalued reputations while championing lesser-known talents. His prose style receives frequent mentions for clarity and precision. Readers appreciate: - Clear explanations that make art criticism accessible - Historical context and connections between artists - Fearless takedowns of art world pretensions - Defense of traditional technical skill in art Common criticisms: - Tone can be harsh and elitist - Some reviews feel dated now - Occasional repetition between essays - Conservative bias against conceptual/avant-garde art Average ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (211 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (31 ratings) Sample reader comment: "Hughes writes with conviction and backs up his opinions with deep knowledge. Even when I disagree, his arguments are worth considering." - Goodreads reviewer "His takedowns are entertaining but sometimes cross into meanness" - Amazon reviewer

Seven Days in the Art World by Sarah Thornton An ethnographic study of art market mechanisms, auctions, galleries, and art fairs reveals the inner workings of the contemporary art ecosystem.

Ways of Seeing by John Berger A critical examination of visual art and its relationship to society, politics, and culture demonstrates how images shape human perception.

The Shock of the New by Robert Hughes A chronicle of modern art from Modernism to the late 20th century explores the connections between art movements and historical events.

Pictures and Tears by James Elkins An investigation into the phenomenon of emotional responses to art uncovers the complex relationship between viewers and artworks throughout history.

The Story of Art by Ernst Gombrich A comprehensive survey of art history traces the development of visual expression from cave paintings to modern times through cultural and social contexts.

🎨 Robert Hughes wrote this collection of art criticism essays while serving as TIME magazine's chief art critic, a position he held for over three decades. 🖼️ The book's title comes from Hughes' reputation for brutal honesty in his reviews, famously dismissing Julian Schnabel's work as "Schnabel's work is to painting what Stallone's is to acting." 📚 Many of the essays were originally published in The New York Review of Books and The New Republic before being compiled into this collection in 1990. 🏛️ Hughes challenged the commercialization of the 1980s art market, particularly in New York, arguing that inflated prices and speculation were corrupting artistic integrity. 🎭 The book covers an impressive range of artists across centuries, from Caravaggio and Goya to contemporaries like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Francesco Clemente, demonstrating Hughes' remarkable breadth of knowledge.