Hey Everyone!
Reading the news articles posted, the critics sound strikingly familar to the critics who bashed the Impressionist group over a hundred years ago. Haven't we gotten anywhere since then - especially after all the "isms" and the modern/post-modern era?
Actually, with the great pull toward abstraction, I'm glad to see that Freud is sticking to realism, especially with the vast amount of abstract work created out there. Plus, he's letting paint be paint and creating an interesting surface and has a recognizable style. Yes, the painting may be a little unflattering, but it's his interpretation and he's entitled to it. Next thing you know, we'll be back to government regulated art.
A great book to read that is related, if you're interested, is James Lord's "A Giacommetti Portrait". A great first-hand account of an artist's creative process.
My vote:
The Queen's Portrait
Hybrid Mode
