The New Yorker Parts Ways with Art Critic Following Misconduct Allegations
A High-Profile Departure Amidst a Celebratory Milestone
The New Yorker, one of the most prestigious literary and cultural magazines in the world, has severed ties with its art critic, Jackson Arn, following allegations of inappropriate behavior at the magazine’s 100th-anniversary celebration in February. Arn, who joined the publication in August 2023, was accused of making inappropriate advances toward attendees and appearing intoxicated during the event. The allegations, corroborated by two individuals familiar with the matter, led to his departure from the magazine. When reached for comment, Arn declined to respond, while a spokesperson for Condé Nast, the publisher of The New Yorker, stated that the company could not comment on confidential personnel matters.
A Night of Celebration Marred by Controversy
The 100th-anniversary party, held at a trendy NoHo nightclub called Jean’s, was intended to be a grand celebration of The New Yorker’s legacy. The event brought together a glittering array of writers, editors, and artists who have contributed to the magazine over the years. Notable attendees included Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novelist Art Spiegelman, renowned journalist and Columbia Journalism School Dean Jelani Cobb, and Tina Brown, a former editor of The New Yorker. The party was a culmination of a year-long centennial celebration that included special podcasts, a commemorative issue, and curated collections of poetry and fiction. David Remnick, the magazine’s longtime editor, reflected on the milestone in a column, calling The New Yorker a “great gamble” that had successfully evolved to embrace audio, video, and digital ventures.
The Rise and Fall of Jackson Arn at The New Yorker
Jackson Arn’s tenure at The New Yorker was short-lived but notable. He joined the magazine in August 2023, succeeding the late Peter Schjeldahl, who had served as the magazine’s art critic for decades before his death in 2022 at the age of 80. Arn brought a diverse background to the role, having previously written for esteemed publications such as Artforum, The Nation, and The New Statesman. At The New Yorker, he was tasked with a broad mandate, writing about both established masters, like Claude Monet, and more unconventional topics, such as meditations on the color red. His contributions were seen as a fresh perspective in the world of art criticism, blending intellectual depth with accessible prose.
However, his time at the magazine came to an abrupt end following the allegations of misconduct at the anniversary party. Arn’s last article for The New Yorker was published on March 10, and his author page on the magazine’s website was quietly updated earlier this month to reflect that he had “served as The New Yorker’s art critic.” The wording suggests a deliberate attempt to distance the magazine from him without explicitly addressing the circumstances of his departure.
The Aftermath and Implications
The decision to part ways with Arn underscores the growing emphasis on accountability in the workplace, particularly in the wake of the #MeToo movement and heightened scrutiny of professional conduct. While The New Yorker has not publicly disclosed the specifics of the complaints against Arn, the allegations clearly crossed a line, prompting swift action from the magazine’s leadership. The incident also raises questions about the culture of professionalism and respect within the magazine and the broader media industry.
Arn’s departure leaves a void in The New Yorker’s arts coverage, as he had quickly established himself as a prominent voice in the field. His exit also serves as a reminder of the challenges of navigating high-profile events, where the line between celebration and professionalism can sometimes blur. As The New Yorker moves forward, it will need to ensure that its commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment remains at the forefront of its operations.
The Legacy of The New Yorker and the Road Ahead
The New Yorker’s centennial celebration was a testament to its enduring influence as a cultural and literary institution. From its early days as a bold experiment in journalism to its current status as a multimedia powerhouse, the magazine has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged its readers. While the incident involving Jackson Arn has cast a shadow over the celebrations, it also highlights the importance of maintaining high standards of conduct and integrity in all aspects of its operations.
As the magazine looks to the future, it will continue to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing media landscape. The departure of Jackson Arn serves as a reminder that even in times of celebration, accountability and transparency are essential. The New Yorker’s ability to address this situation with the seriousness it deserves will be crucial in maintaining its reputation as a leader in the world of journalism and arts criticism.
In conclusion, while the allegations against Jackson Arn have overshadowed what was meant to be a joyous milestone for The New Yorker, the magazine’s commitment to its values and the integrity of its leadership will guide it through this challenging moment. The legacy of The New Yorker is not defined by a single incident but by its unwavering dedication to excellence, creativity, and the pursuit of truth. As it moves into its second century, the magazine will continue to evolve, adapting to new challenges while remaining true to the principles that have made it a cornerstone of American cultural life.
