When money and hype recede from the art world, one thing I won't miss will be what curator Francesco Bonami calls the 'Eventocracy.' All this flashy 'art-fair art' and those highly produced space-eating spectacles and installations wow you for a minute until you move on to the next adrenaline event.
Jerry Saltz, a renowned art critic, laments the fleeting nature of contemporary art's 'Eventocracy.' He argues that the art world's focus on flashy, highly produced events and installations has led to a lack of substance and depth in the art itself. Saltz believes that this superficiality will eventually fade, leaving behind a more authentic art world.
Saltz's critique highlights the tension between the art world's desire for spectacle and the need for meaningful, lasting art. His words serve as a warning to artists and curators to prioritize substance over flash.
The concept of 'Eventocracy' likely emerged in the early 2000s with the rise of biennales, art fairs, and large-scale installations. This phenomenon has been fueled by the increasing commercialization of the art world and the desire for artists to gain international recognition.
Jerry Saltz is a Pulitzer Prize-winning art critic and columnist for New York magazine. He has written extensively on contemporary art, architecture, and culture, and is known for his insightful and provocative commentary.
Saltz's critique can be applied to various creative fields, such as music, theater, and dance. It serves as a reminder to prioritize substance and authenticity over superficial spectacle.
Some may argue that Saltz's critique is overly negative, dismissing the value of large-scale installations and events. Others may see his words as a call to action, encouraging artists to focus on creating meaningful, lasting work.