George Melly 1972

Editor: So, this is Barry Flanagan's line drawing of George Melly, housed at the Tate. The simple lines give it such an intimate feel. What can you tell me about how this piece fits into the art world at the time? Curator: Well, portraits are always about power dynamics, aren't they? Who is seen, and how are they seen? Flanagan, known for his sculptures, chooses a very direct, unvarnished approach here. It's interesting considering Melly's own position as a public figure critiquing culture. Does this portrayal reinforce or challenge his public persona, do you think? Editor: That's a good point. I hadn't thought about it in terms of power. I guess it feels more like an honest encounter. Curator: Perhaps, but honesty is constructed, isn't it? By both artist and sitter, and the institutions that validate it. Editor: I see what you mean. It's definitely more complex than it first appears. Curator: Precisely! Thinking about it as a cultural artifact lets us see the many layers of meaning within such a seemingly simple work.