Comments (0) Weekend Review
Red
Ten years after his emergence as a known entity in the New York art world, Rothko had developed a tightly honed artistic vision. He sought to connect with the viewer on a level more powerful and unsettling than an “optical shudder” – to elevate his paintings to enablers of deep meditation. The commission presented by the sexy, new, state-of-the-art Four Seasons promised to be a long-sought-after temple to this desire; offering a hallowed space where his luminous panels could envelope the viewer. In reality, it reveled itself to be nothing more than glorified room decoration. A temple to champaign and foie gras where his art would be most viewed by the backs of diners. After much agony, Rothko opted to return the money and refuse the commission.
Although set in the late 1950s, the question of artistic integrity and seriousness of the art and artist is incredibly timely and appropriate. We live in an era where the lines between commercial and artistic endeavors are entirely blurred. A time where artists sell as brands and brands vie for an increasing mindshare of cultural arts. Is promotion seen as selling out?
Hackel Bury and the Starn Twins
Despite strong discouragement from their gallerist, when The World of Interiors came calling the Starn Twins agreed to the interview. The article caught the attention of the MET whom in-turn approached the twins about a multi-year commission of a lifetime. Once again I can’t help but feel that even when people have our best career interests at heart, it is the individual artist who has the greatest control over their success.
Ryan McGinley at Team
To say that McGinley received a rockstar welcome would be an understatement. It was astounding to witness the receptivity and admiration towards the young artist. Unlike Avedon who had no interest in photographing young people, I happen to be attracted to the naivety of youth. I found McGinley’s work refreshing – the compilation filled with strong shots and interesting angles. But it was overkill. He showed too much. For me, the abundance diminished the impact of the body of work.
Delighted by John
This weekend I attended the birthday party of John Demsey in his stunning east side townhouse. Demsey, among many other things is a great lover of photography and an ardent collector. I am honored to say that John has chosen to include the photograph I made of Andy Warhol for Vogue in his collection. Thank you for a wonderful time John, and for being a continued support of my work.
Themocracy