ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

The Changing Role of Art Critics Since the 1980s

opinion-review · 2026-04-23

Since the early 1980s, the role of the art critic has evolved significantly. Critics have expanded their methods of action, updated their modes of demonstration, and redefined the modalities of their power. To test or challenge their writing, critics now extend their work by organizing exhibitions. This involvement can be interpreted as a manifestation of critics' fear of losing their power and right to critique, as they engage in the artists' game.

Key facts

  • The role of art critics has changed since the early 1980s.
  • Critics have multiplied their means of action and updated their power modalities.
  • Critics now organize exhibitions to test their writing.
  • This involvement reflects critics' fear of losing their power and right to critique.

Entities

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