Lost in the Forest?
In response to the “Exhibit of Ho-Hum”--a review by Cathy Curtis of “California Light, 1900-1930,” an exhibition organized by the Laguna Art Museum (Oct. 17):
The critique prompted me to call Ms. Curtis to try and understand the basis of her negativity toward the exhibition and the artists themselves.
Surprisingly, Ms. Curtis admitted to me that she really doesn’t like these pictures. Can a critic who admits a negative prejudgment of the art write a truly objective review?
The central thesis of the exhibition--the distinctive qualities of California Light--was totally lost in the review. The exhibition (and catalogue) looks at nine Southern California painters attracted by the uniqueness of this region and its ambient light. Each of the nine artists treated the light and atmosphere of California differently.
As essayist Joachim Smith points out, California Light is “not simply a visual phenomenon but an engulfing experience.” By taking the time for more than a stroll, and by studying the paintings, Ms. Curtis could have ascertained this thesis.
Regarding the “provinciality” of the painters included in California Light: All of these artists exhibited widely during their lifetimes, not only on the East Coast but in Europe as well. Their works were shown at the National Academy of Design in New York, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Salon in Paris, and in many other national and international exhibition arenas.
The aesthetic values of this art--the golden light of Guy Rose’s “Indian Tobacco Trees, La Jolla,” Joseph Kleitsch’s kaleidoscopic “Oriental Shop,” William Wendt’s dewy green, rock-like “Where Nature’s God Hath Wrought”--reflect the aspirations of the period. Perhaps we can learn from the remarkable observations of these artists as we struggle to clean up our air and environment. Art does not have to be on the cutting edge to be thoughtful, instructive and appreciated.
The arts need critics to give perspective to an exhibition, an opera, or a symphony; but the critic must also be objective and diligent enough to provide a careful background for their reflections.
Ho-hum, Cathy Curtis, I believe you got lost in the forest and couldn’t see the trees!
PATRICIA TRENTON
Guest Curator
“California Light, 1900-1930”
Laguna Art Museum
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