Joan Acocella

The podcast features staff writers Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discussing the art and purpose of criticism. They reflect on the work of legendary practitioner Joan Acocella and explore their own formative influences. They discuss the challenges of arts journalism and the role of a critic in making elevated material relatable. The speakers also explore the impact of criticism in providing comfort and connection. They discuss the current crisis in criticism, the decline of arts criticism, and the rise of online platforms. The importance of supporting the artistic ecosystem through professional criticism is emphasized.