Renato Barilli criticizes curator-centric art world

Renato Barilli, professor emeritus at the University of Bologna and a militant critic for seventy years, argues that the current privileging of curators over critics undermines the future of art. He contends that healthy criticism requires combining critical writing with exhibition organization, as practiced by colleagues like Calvesi, Crispolti, Menna, Boatto, Celant, and Bonito Oliva. Barilli laments that since the new century, biennials have been led by prominent curators who often betray their stated principles, making conservative choices and selecting established names to avoid risk. He criticizes Okwui Enwezor, director of the 56th Venice Biennale, as the epitome of these flaws. Barilli asserts that conformity prevails over genuine curiosity and studio visits. The article appears in Artribune Magazine #34.