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R. F. Bogardus's avatar

Probing, perceptive argument that needs rereading and reflection. Sidebar: Are Sean Scully’s paintings contemporary extensions of Tiepolo? I’ve seen many Tiepolo works in situ but few of Scully’s, so I’m not sure. Wayne Thiebaud’s luscious paintings of banal objects, of which I’ve seen many, may also fit with Tiepolo.

Arthur Fish's avatar

This is a wonderful essay that offers a compelling diagnosis of the ailments of contemporary art while pointing towards a path forward. It is convincing (and a very pleasurable read) because it is rooted in an evident love of painting, and avoids sterile “theorizing.” I look forward to reading your book on the Muses.

Dan Silva's avatar

I like this a lot, thanks Alice. I agree we might look to art history to inform our current aesthetics. However, the type of reflection and research you outline here feels more like one artistic person searching for their own inspiration and using it for their work, rather than the stuff of historical art movements. I do wonder if we're currently too atomised for a new aesthetic movement to sweep through society.

Dan Silva's avatar

But I should add that I still remain hopeful!

Stourley Kracklite's avatar

A very compelling aesthetic prognostication. If I may, wouldn’t such a metaphysically oriented/ craft and detail propelled aesthetic recognize Salvador Dalí as a heroic progenitor?