Louisa Buck is an English art critic and a contemporary art correspondent at the Art Newspaper. Louisa Buck’s first book, titled Moving Targets 2, which gives profiles of artists, collectors, curators, galleries and critics who contribute to the best art being made in Britain. Louisa Buck included profiles of several high profile artists, including Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst and Cornelia Parker.
In 2000, she was an art critic of the Stuckists artists saying, “I saw the last Stuckists exhibition and some of the work was just plain cack. There may be a lot of boring conceptual work but to have a grumpy reactionary movement against it is just daft.”
In 2004, she wrote a report for the Arts Council called ‘Market Matters: The dynamics of the contemporary art market’. In this report, she quoted Thomas Hoving, a previous Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art saying, “Art is sexy! Art is money-sexy! Art is money-sexy-social-climbing-fantastic!”. Louisa has said that this description “never seemed more apt”.
Louisa Buck’s career as an art critic and correspondent spans decades of insightful commentary and analysis in the realm of contemporary art. Her contributions to art criticism are marked by her ability to dissect and contextualise the ever-evolving landscape of British and international art scenes.
Beyond her influential book “Moving Targets 2,” which continues to serve as a definitive guide to the key figures shaping British art, Louisa Buck’s critical voice resonates through her candid assessments of artistic movements. Her frank critique of the Stuckists in 2000 reflects her willingness to challenge established norms and provoke discourse within the art community.
As a correspondent at the Art Newspaper, Louisa Buck continues to provide incisive commentary on art exhibitions, trends, and cultural developments. Her insights into the socio-economic aspects of art-making and consumption contribute to a deeper understanding of how art shapes and reflects contemporary society.
Louisa Buck’s fearless approach to art criticism and her dedication to exploring the multifaceted roles of art in modern life cement her reputation as a leading voice in the field. Her ongoing influence in shaping critical discourse and fostering appreciation for contemporary art ensures her enduring impact on the global art community.
In Maggi Hambling: The Night episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam sits with acclaimed British artist Maggi Hambling and renowned British art critic and art journalist Louisa Buck for a revealing discussion about Maggi’s life and career. Together, they delve into topics including Maggi and Louisa’s joint stint on 1980s gameshow Gallery and Maggi’s exploration of seduction and intimacy.
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