Rochelle Gurstein

Rochelle Gurstein, an esteemed intellectual historian and critic, discusses the evolution of what defines a classic in art. She dives into the historical obscurity of masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the shifting perceptions surrounding iconic works. The conversation explores how societal taste influences the appreciation of art, with highlights on the Elgin marbles and the Venus de Medici. Gurstein also reflects on the complex standards of artistic judgment and the role of critics in shaping cultural values over time.