Hilton Kramer was an American art critic, known for his biting critiques and conservative views. The phonetic transcription of his name is /ˈhɪltən ˈkrɛmər/, with the stressed syllables being the first and third. The spelling of his name follows standard English rules, with the two consonants "lt" in Hilton and the "km" in Kramer making the pronunciation slightly challenging. However, overall, his name is easy to spell and pronounce, making it recognizable in the art world for many.
Hilton Kramer was an American art critic, essayist, and writer, born on March 25, 1928, and passed away on March 27, 2012. He is best known for his work as the chief art critic for The New York Times from 1965 to 1982, shaping the discourse around contemporary art during that period.
In the realm of art criticism, Hilton Kramer was highly regarded for his insightful, often controversial opinions and interpretations. Known for his erudite style and rigorous analysis, he brought a distinctive voice and critical perspective to the field. Kramer possessed a keen eye for aesthetics and a deep knowledge of art history, which allowed him to navigate the complexities of different artistic movements and styles, ranging from Modernism to Postmodernism.
Beyond his tenure at The New York Times, Kramer also founded The New Criterion in 1982, a highly respected monthly art magazine that he edited until 2009. The publication aimed to provide an alternative, conservative perspective on contemporary cultural and artistic discussions. Under Kramer's leadership, The New Criterion became a prominent platform for intellectual debate and criticism.
Throughout his career, Hilton Kramer sought to uphold the traditional values of art and championed figures whom he believed adhered to those principles. He emphasized the importance of craft, skill, and a deeper engagement with the historical tradition. While his views often stirred controversy and criticism themselves, Kramer undeniably left an enduring impact on the field of art criticism and played a significant role in shaping the discourse of contemporary art.
The name "Hilton Kramer" does not have an etymology in the traditional sense. It is a combination of a first name, "Hilton", and a surname, "Kramer", both of which are of English origin. "Hilton" likely originated as a locational surname from any of the various places in England called Hilton, derived from the Old English words "hyll" meaning "hill" and "tun" meaning "settlement". "Kramer" is a German occupational surname derived from the Middle High German word "kramære", meaning "merchants" or "tradesmen". Therefore, the name "Hilton Kramer" is a unique combination of two English names and holds no specific etymological meaning.