Val(i)dez. La crítica de la crítica de arte en Colombia

Abstract

Does criticism require critique? Val(i)dez is a monograph that analyzes moments when the very practice of art criticism came under scrutiny, whether to specialize, seek recognition, test its authority, or simply spark debate. This research identifies three periods, classified by the general dynamics of validation in the development of visual arts in Colombia. The first, Pre-criticism, is linked to the judging panels of Colombia’s earliest visual arts exhibitions. The second, Serious Criticism, refers to the figure of the “art critic”, the free market for artworks, and the National Salon. The third, Non-serious Criticism, is set in the context of "the curator" and digital platforms. In non-serious criticism, the "L.O. Case" is presented as the antithesis of Colombian art criticism, analyzing the writings and gestures of artist Lucas Ospina, who, from 1995 with the publication of Revista Valdez, through the second decade of the 2000s, ironically played with critical authority. Finally, Posiciones Incómodas is presented as a space for conversation and assessment of the impact of criticism on current artistic practices and its development in response to the specific needs of Colombia’s visual arts ecosystem.