Kuspit is not an art theorist. He's an art critic/philosopher/art historian. (Full disclosure: Kuspit will provide a major catalog essay for my forthcoming retrospective in early 2009). I've had a few contacts with him over 25 years. Re his influence, let's say he's my Malraux.
My grim view of graduate level M.F.A. study (I exclude many wonderful undergrad programs but they are being narrowed as the new breed takes over) is probably a little overstated. I have in mind the most influential programs at top art schools and universities, the places that need stars and lots of money to stay on top. Yet, although my view as stated here is too strong to merit attention in academic terms, it does convey the problem generally. To do it justice in writing I'd have to tone it down a little and bring in vast supporting evidence. It's all there but I don't have time to do the job. WC
