Every few years I encounter a writer that makes me swoon.  It’s akin to the Stendahl Syndrome but without the imbalance, the weak-at-the-knees, and the temporary disorientation.  I almost exclusively listen to books now, driving taking up half my life. I generally like the chosen readers on most offerings from Audible and on that rare occasion enjoy the author reading their own work.  Peter Schjeldahl delivers as perfect a listening experience one could hope for.

Hot, Cold, Heavy, Light - 100 Art Writings 1988-2018 is as pleasurable a read/listen as anyone could hope for.  His voice is old, wise, kind, and clear.  His knowledge of art, and I assume his experiencing art, is mind-boggling.  This collection is mostly criticisms written for The New Yorker, Village Voice, Seven Days and maybe one or two other publications.  Some are very short, some are quite long.  He is occasionally dismissive without ever being cruel but most of the time he borders on rapturous.  I got the impression that he chose to critique only those who truly impressed him.  His prose is flawless and completely accessible to the average gallery/museum goer as well as the “art nerd.”

Read this. You won’t be sorry