Letters from Tomis

Wolfe, Tom. The Painted Word. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1975.

Tom Wolfe’s The Painted Word is a sharp, incisive, and often hilarious critique of the modern art world, delivered with his signature wit and razor-sharp observations. Published in 1975, this book takes a deep dive into the evolution of contemporary art, exposing the shift from visual experience to intellectualized theory.

Wolfe argues that modern art became less about aesthetics and more about the concepts and manifestos surrounding it, where critics and theorists like Clement Greenberg, Harold Rosenberg, and Leo Steinberg played an outsized role in dictating artistic trends. He humorously presents the idea that by the 1970s, art was no longer about what was on the canvas—it was about the words written about it.

What makes The Painted Word so compelling is Wolfe’s vivid storytelling, biting humor, and satirical edge. He masterfully blends research with cultural critique, painting a fascinating portrait of the New York art scene, filled with absurdity, pretension, and larger-than-life personalities. His writing is engaging, accessible, and often laugh-out-loud funny, making this book a joy to read even for those unfamiliar with art history.

While some critics have accused Wolfe of being dismissive or oversimplifying modern art, his perspective is a refreshing counterpoint to the often opaque and exclusionary world of contemporary art theory. His ability to deconstruct the elitism of the art establishment makes this book as relevant today as it was upon its release.

Whether you’re an art lover, a skeptic, or simply a fan of Wolfe’s biting cultural critiques, The Painted Word is a must-read. It’s a book that will make you rethink the role of art, theory, and criticism—while keeping you thoroughly entertained.