Encounters with Artists

Richard Cork is an art critic and writer who has interviewed some of the world's most influential modern and contemporary artists. Through frank interviews, he reveals the artists' inner thoughts, anxieties, and creative ambitions, revealing the personalities behind the art. Cork has played a significant role in popularizing late modern and contemporary art, and his 'lucid, even-handed, and at times trenchantly critical judgment has been invaluable in helping to create the multiplicity of approach and vigorous debates of today's artistic climate.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Richard Cork, a renowned art critic and writer, delves into the captivating narratives of his personal encounters with some of the world's most influential modern and contemporary artists. With his exceptional skills as a critic and writer, Cork weaves together a series of candid interviews, some meticulously planned, others fortuitously stumbled upon, to unveil the inner workings, fears, and creative aspirations of these artists. Through these revealing conversations, he unveils the personalities behind the art, offering a profound insight into their artistic journeys.

Cork's encounters span a diverse range of artists, from those who have witnessed the evolution of their craft over a lifetime, such as Louise Bourgeois, Roy Lichtenstein, and Jasper Johns, to young talents just beginning their careers, including Tracey Emin and Damien Hirst. From a leisurely drive through the picturesque Yorkshire countryside with David Hockney to a lively tour of Soho's drinking establishments with Francis Bacon, Cork's experiences are eclectic and captivating. Alongside these insightful encounters, he has had remarkable conversations with artists as diverse as Gerhard Richter, Doris Salcedo, Sonia Boyce, Luc Tuymans, and Steve McQueen. These conversations have proven to be surprising, revealing, enlightening, challenging, provocative, stimulating, and even transformative, challenging his preconceptions and expanding his understanding of the individuals he encounters.

Cork's profound influence extends beyond his writings. He has played a significant role in popularizing late modern and contemporary art, according to art critic Louisa Buck. Cork's "lucid, even-handed, and at times trenchantly critical judgment has been invaluable in helping to create the multiplicity of approach and vigorous debates of today's artistic climate." His dedication to exploring the artistic realm has enriched the cultural landscape, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse expressions of creativity.

Through his captivating stories and insightful encounters, Richard Cork invites us to explore the world of art from a unique perspective, shedding light on the artists' minds, motivations, and the profound impact they have on our artistic landscape. His work serves as a testament to the power of dialogue and the transformative power of art, reminding us of the profound connections that can be forged between artists and their audiences.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 163 x 245 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500025109