‘He’s the Pauline Kael of art criticism’: artists pay tribute to the Guardian’s Adrian Searle

Why it matters: The departure of Adrian Searle marks the end of an era for the Guardian's art criticism, impacting future discourse.
- Adrian Searle, the Guardian's outgoing chief art critic, is being celebrated by prominent artists for his significant impact on their work and the art scene.
- Artists like Chris Ofili and Rachel Whiteread have shared personal stories, highlighting Searle's unique approach, which included being tattooed and visiting pole-dancing clubs with artists.
- Searle's critical style is being compared to that of Pauline Kael, suggesting a legacy of sharp, influential, and perhaps provocative art commentary.
Leading artists, including Chris Ofili and Rachel Whiteread, are paying tribute to Adrian Searle, the Guardian's outgoing chief art critic, with many likening him to a 'Pauline Kael of art criticism' for his profound influence and unique voice. Their anecdotes reveal a critic who not only inspired but also deeply engaged with the art world, often in unconventional ways.




