Clement Greenberg on Modernism, Formalism and the Evolution of 20th-Century Art | American Art Forum

In this captivating episode of American Art Forum (recorded in 1987), host Richard Love interviews Clement Greenberg, one of the most influential art critics of the 20th century. Greenberg, renowned for his critical writings on modernism and formalism, discusses his pivotal role in shaping public perceptions of abstract art and the artists he championed, such as Jackson Pollock and Ken Noland.

Throughout the conversation, Greenberg reflects on the evolution of modernist art, his disdain for being labeled a "formalism" advocate, and his views on the art world’s shift toward pop art, including his candid critiques of artists like Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol. The interview also delves into Greenberg’s controversial stance on art investment, his lasting influence on art criticism, and his reflections on postmodernism.

Key moments include Greenberg's defense of abstract art as the dominant form of the mid-20th century, his unease with the term "formalism," and his thoughts on the future of art. Whether you're an art lover or new to Greenberg’s ideas, this episode offers an insightful look into the mind of a critical figure in American art history.

00:00 - Introduction to Clement Greenberg
00:44 - Greenberg’s role in shaping 1950s-60s American art
02:10 - Formalism and its misinterpretation
05:31 - Value judgments in art criticism
07:10 - Greenberg on Harold Rosenberg and Action Painting
08:49 - The ethics of art investment for critics
11:18 - Greenberg’s views on pop art and Lichtenstein
15:03 - Realism vs. abstraction in Greenberg's critiques
20:56 - Greenberg on Pop Art leaders like Warhol
23:34 - Greenberg’s thoughts on postmodernism
24:41 - Conclusion and closing remarks