Corcoran's Jury
Washington Post, April 2, 1955
To have an important National Art Exhibition selected by a jury of museum directors is to invite the catastrophe that befell the art world in the form of this year's Biennial at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. That only 64 paintings were chosen, while 2037 were rejected, is unfortunate. That the 64 represent such a narrow vision of what is being done in America is a catastrophe.
Unfortunately this Biennial is not an isolated example of the Corcoran's exhibition troubles. There have been other memorable examples in recent years. The basic trouble lies in the method used for choosing juries. For several years the Corcoran has been searching for ways and means of keeping abreast of changing taste and styles in art. In doing so it has done much to enhance its position and reputation as a great gallery.
However, in its many experiments with juries it has encountered more than its share of failures.
Apparently it is more necessary for museum directors to keep abreast of the latest acceptable trend in art than it is to concern themselves with what is good in all trends. Such nonpracticing members of the art community may serve a useful purpose in special types of exhibitions, but they should never judge a major exhibition.
It must be remembered that advances and changes that occur in art come from artists. It is equally certain that most of the successful advances or changes in exhibitions will come from them. And so, they should select the exhibitions. However, they should work in groups, for a one-man jury, even of a competent artist, is a questionable thing. In rare cases it may be the best method, but it is a gamble, and should not be tried for an important exhibition.
A jury composed of several artists will be faced with the usual problems of differences of opinion and with compromise. Still it will function in a way to allow checks and balances to influence choices.
It is vital that the next Biennial be chosen by a well-balanced artist jury.
Kenneth Stubbs
Washington
Jury Is Responsible for Corcoran Show's Faults
Washington Daily News, April 1, 1955
Most of the barbs aimed at this year's Biennial Exhibition at The Corcoran Gallery of Art are from people who object to the modern paintings shown. Such criticisms miss the point.
For styles to change in art is natural and healthy. Artists will bring about such changes regardless of criticism. The fact that the Biennial presents modern work is good. However, a national show should not be limited to an up-to-date style. It should present good work in all styles.
The trouble with this Biennial goes back to the selection of the jury, which was composed entirely of museum directors. Apparently they felt the need to prove they are up-to-date.
Paintings for the Biennial should be chosen by a jury composed of several practicing artists, who are able to see quality even in styles other than their own.
Kenneth Stubbs
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