Le Tableau exhibition at Cheim & Read critiques theory-driven curation of postwar French painting

From June 24 to September 3, 2010, Cheim & Read in New York City hosted "Le Tableau," a group exhibition curated by Joe Fyfe. This show examined the links between contemporary abstract practices and postwar French painting but received criticism for emphasizing theory over artistic merit. Fyfe highlighted material structure and referred to the "flatbed picture plane." Featured artists included Jean Fautrier, Serge Poliakoff, and Jean-Paul Riopelle, alongside contemporary figures such as Claude Viallat and Joan Mitchell. Notably absent were Pierre Soulages and Wols. Fyfe showcased his own sewn piece, aligning himself with the tradition. Critics remarked on an awkward interplay between historical and modern works, suggesting that stronger historical references could have bolstered the exhibition's impact.