Modigliani's Models

Now I'm going to surprise those of you who think I'm a borné reactionary who proves his lack of intellect by condemning modern art. I actually like the best of Modigliani's nudes. Their gentle abstraction of the female form gives them a serenity which detailed realism might destroy. The subject is also allowed her privacy, because her naked body is merely part of an overall pattern that gives the picture a pleasing sense of balance. So the inclusion of pudic hair - a potentially shocking break with artistic convention in its day - becomes a rather prim addition to the pattern. Sorry if I'm beginning to sound like a pseud, but it's very difficult to discuss art without seeming pretentious. Anyway, Modigliani and his Models begins today at the Royal Academy of Arts in London and continues until 15 October.