Artforum Magazine Faces Backlash and Boycotts Following Editor’s Firing
Artforum, a renowned art magazine, finds itself in the midst of a controversy that has shaken the art community. The turmoil began when the magazine’s top editor, David Velasco, was fired after the publication of an open letter addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict. Velasco’s dismissal triggered a chain reaction, with another editor resigning and several prominent artists threatening to boycott Artforum unless Velasco is reinstated.
The conflict over discussing the Middle East situation has strained relationships between collectors and artists. Artists Nicole Eisenman and Nan Goldin criticized the magazine’s owner and vowed to sever ties with Artforum. They are not alone in their sentiments, as nearly 50 Artforum employees and contributors signed a letter demanding Velasco’s reinstatement, expressing concerns about editorial independence.
The controversy escalated when Artforum published an open letter that omitted any mention of Hamas attacks. This move drew significant backlash from various quarters. Gallerists and collectors launched campaigns to remove their names from the letter while requesting the shutdown of an exhibition by a Palestinian artist. Pressure from advertisers forced Artforum to distance itself from the open letter, clarifying that it was not intended as a political statement.
The magazine’s owner, Penkse Media Corporation, has chosen to remain silent on the matter, refusing to provide any comment on the situation. The uncertainty surrounding Artforum’s future is deepened by the resignation of Associate Editor Kate Sutton, who expressed doubts about the magazine’s direction.
In this increasingly tense environment, artists have been facing threats and pressure from collectors who disagree with the open letter but support the call for peace. Some collectors have attempted to convince artists to retract their signatures, going as far as threatening to sell their artwork.
Disturbingly, the situation has also seen a conflation of support for Palestinians with antisemitism. This dangerous association has raised concerns about the rise of prejudice.
Nan Goldin, an acclaimed artist, has remained steadfast in her decision not to collaborate with Artforum following Velasco’s firing. Her actions reflect the deep divisions that exist within the art community regarding the magazine’s choices and decisions.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Artforum will navigate these troubled waters. The incident has highlighted the complex relationship between art, politics, and the freedom of expression within the art world.
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