Artforum and Art Lies

Contrary to popular opinion, I found Artforum’s website surprisingly easy to navigate. Although the articles are presented one after the other in what is basically a list, the tabs at the top of the page make it easy to find at least the type of article you’re looking for. In a similar manner, the table of contents in the print version very carefully spells out the articles in the magazine- admittedly, these articles are separated by an absurd number of ads for galleries, designers of all kinds, events and other “art related” propaganda. Were I not so enthralled with the images this fact might disturb me; luckily I am not the sophisticated art magazine reader who seeks out information over visual stimulation.
The website was also unable to overcome the magazine’s pictorial disease- the flashing ads that run along the sides of the site and through out the articles are difficult to ignore. However, the interesting features of the page- such as art happenings by continent and even by country- make for a more enjoyable visit, and if you know the artist or article you are looking for the search bar is always available for use.
In stark contrast, Art Lies has taken a minimalist approach to web design. The page is clean and follows a color scheme that doesn’t strain your eyes, nor do they make use of the disorienting animated ads. Because it is not so tiring to look at, the site is ideal for browsing. The articles are written differently- they use less inflated language and are more for those interested in contemporary art, but not necessarily collecting it.
The website is very easy to move about- the home page includes featured articles as well as information on subscribing and advertising in the magazine. Articles are organized under broad headings and listed by title with occasional accompanying images, eliminating the need to scroll down the entire page through articles you weren’t interested in reading (and ads you weren’t interested in seeing). The caliber of featured artists or contributing writers is on par with Artforum, many names appear on both sites with equal frequency. Reading either will keep you “in the know” of the contemporary art world; your choice depends your on “Collector” status aspirations and your affinity for “Scene and Herd”.