Kenneth Clark and the Exodus of the Modernists

The controversial paper explores Kenneth Clark's hostility and outspoken opposition to modern art in the 1930s; then his qualified support for several artists during the war years. Several direct attacks against modern art he made in the 1930s British media are cited and discussed. Identifying specific artists, the paper shows who Clark railed against (including Nicholson & Mondrian) and how it affected their lives; and who he chose to promote, using his official position during the war to advance certain artists he was friendly with (Piper & Sutherland). Turning to Henry Moore's underground shelter drawings made during the London Blitz, the article suggests how the artist coped with Clark's narrow views while trying not to compromise his own strengthening modernist work. 9pp.