This section begins the chapter on "Judging Art." It looks at the judgments and interpretations of several critics concerning the work of Frida Kahlo, Martin Puryear, and Romare Bearden. In regards to Kahlo, two critics' reviews of her and her work are looked at in depth: Peter Plagens and Hayden Herrera. Plagens' review is a little sarcastic and not quite as appreciative where Herrera's is very positive and complimentary. This is an example where both critics agree on a lot of facts and interpretations of Kahlo's work, but they disagree about how important her work is.
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| Frida Kahlo, Self Portrait with Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird, 1940 |
The next section discusses the sculptures of Martin Puryear. The judgments of Puryear's work are consistently positive, though for varying reasons. Some critics like his work because of how mysterious it is. Others appreciate his work because they believe he stays true to himself as an artist, does work that he wants to do, and doesn't fall prey to popular influences. Yet others like how his forms really elicit strong feelings in viewers--how is work is very emotional. Many praise Puryear for his exquisite craftsmanship that he makes look easy.
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| Martin Puryear, Alien Huddle, 1993-5 |
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| Martin Puryear, Old Mole, 1985 |
The collages of Romare Bearden are all agreed to be good art, but each critic goes about reviewing him in his/her own way. Some talk extensively about his southern background while others emphasize how they feel he has beautifully captured the essence of the black south. Some compare his collages to his paintings.
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| Romare Bearden, Recollection Pond, 1975 |
At the end of this section of the chapter, negative judgments are briefly looked at through the lense of David Salle's paintings. His paintings tend to portray women as objects and as the sexual playthings for men and so many critics fault him for his objectification and continuation of stereotypes. Robert Storr, however, believes Salle's paintings show that no one can control how they are represented and is more positive about his work.
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