LA Review of Books
Hal Foster's "Fail Better: Reckonings with Artists and Critics"
Feb 19, 2025
Hal Foster, an esteemed art critic and historian from Princeton, shares insights from his book, 'Fail Better: Reckonings with Artists and Critics.' He discusses the intriguing link between failure and artistic growth. The conversation dives into the evolution of art criticism, highlighting its interplay with Los Angeles's vibrant art community. Foster also reflects on the historical shifts in the art world since the 1980s, spotlighting how contemporary voices challenge traditional narratives and shape the future of critique.
48:55
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Quick takeaways
- Hal Foster emphasizes that art criticism must evolve alongside the changing socio-political landscape to maintain relevance and challenge conventional narratives.
- The concept of 'Fail Better' suggests that embracing the inherent failures in criticism can lead to deeper insights and creativity in artistic discourse.
Deep dives
The Current Landscape of Journalism
The discussion highlights concerns regarding the rise of right-wing politics and its impact on the integrity of journalism. The media's role is scrutinized in terms of its response to corporatization and how this shift has affected the quality and independence of reporting. Journalists emphasize the necessity for a critical examination of how political narratives are shaped and propagated in this challenging environment. This conversation serves as a vital reminder of the need for journalists to uphold ethical standards while navigating through a politically charged landscape.
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