Two arts journalists shine a light on the impact of social movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter on diversity in art museums. They critically analyze whether there are genuinely more artworks by women and people of color on display. Through rigorous research, they reveal alarming statistics on representation disparities. They humorously yet pointedly discuss the slow progress towards gender parity and highlight the need for systemic change in the art world to truly reflect diverse identities.

The podcast delves into the complex legacy of artist Carl Andre, exploring the emotional weight of his past actions and their impact on the art world. It grapples with the implications of cancel culture and the ethical responsibilities of showcasing controversial artists. Listeners are taken on a reflective journey through art appreciation, personal loss, and feminist struggles, as they uncover Ana Mendieta's legacy. The discussion emphasizes the need for open conversations about the intersection of art, tragedy, and accountability in our contemporary society.

Carl Andre, a controversial figure in the art world, discusses his acquittal in a high-profile case that still divides the community. He reflects on how the art world used silence to separate art from artist in the aftermath. The conversation touches on courtroom dynamics, race, and gender issues, revealing how narratives are manipulated to suit public sentiment. Andre also emphasizes the ethical dilemmas faced in trials and the pressing need for activism surrounding domestic violence, illustrating the complex interplay between art, justice, and societal change.

Ana Mendieta, a pioneering artist known for her provocative work that ignited controversy, and Helen, influenced by her ties to Carl Andre's art, discuss the turbulent relationship between art and personal tragedy. They delve into the gripping courtroom drama surrounding Andre's murder trial, where Mendieta's artwork is weaponized against her. Helen shares how her career was shaped by her connection to Andre, raising questions about the interplay between artistic genius and moral accountability in the art world.

Ana was a Cuban female artist striving for recognition in a male-dominated art world. After her tragic death, her friends and family challenge the art community's dismissive labeling of their demands for justice as a "feminist cabal." The conversation weaves through her artistic legacy, the emotional turmoil of loss, and the fight against a patriarchal system. Ana's story raises questions about identity, feminist solidarity, and the complexities of navigating an indignant justice system in pursuit of accountability.

Following Ana’s death, police take Carl in for questioning. He has scratches on his face. His story is inconsistent, yet he maintains his innocence. In this episode, we rewind and take a look back at Carl’s history and his relationship with Ana and try to understand what led to that night. To hear the rest of Season 1 ad-free, sign up for Pushkin+ on the Death of an Artist show page in Apple Podcasts, or at pushkin.fm/plus. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1980s Manhattan, a young Cuban artist named Ana Mendieta made a name for herself as a rising star in the art world. Her turbulent marriage to the older and well-established sculptor Carl Andre raised eyebrows. One September night, Carl called 911 in a panic. His wife, he said, “went out the window.”  To hear the rest of Season 1 ad-free, sign up for Pushkin+ on the Death of an Artist show page in Apple Podcasts, or at pushkin.fm/plus. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming Sept 23: For more than 35 years, accusations of murder shrouded one of the art world’s most storied couples: Was the famous sculptor Carl Andre involved in the death of his up-and-coming artist wife Ana Mendieta? Host Helen Molesworth revisits Mendieta’s death and the trial that followed, and interrogates both the silence and the protest that have accompanied this story ever since. To hear the whole season early and ad-free, consider becoming a Pushkin+ subscriber in Apple Podcasts or at pushkin.fm/plus. Death of an Artist is a co-production between Pushkin Industries, Somethin’ Else, and Sony Music Entertainment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.