Hilton Kramer was an influential American art critic and writer, known for his work in the field of visual arts. He served as the chief art critic for The New York Times from 1971 to 1982, where he gained recognition for his insightful reviews and commentary on contemporary art. Kramer was also a founding editor of the New York Observer and contributed to various publications throughout his career. In addition to his criticism, Kramer authored several books on art and culture, exploring the significance of artistic expression. His perspectives often sparked debate within the art community, making him a prominent figure in discussions about the role of art in society.