How I got kicked out of the arts (twice)

"Oh Mr Mondrian, Mr Piet Mondrian, I love your ism, but is it art?

- Lady Whistletown

This song by the South African musician Niki Daly back in 1984 questions the work by the famous Dutch painter in a playful way.

I've tried some art critique in my own journalistic career, which landed me in the proverbial dog box. I was not welcome at the theatre any more and quickly taken off the beat at work - not considered a patron by those who required my attendance. It was quite painful, I have to say.

At the time, when inspiration got the better of me, I felt so grand pulling the piece apart, giving the public a piece of my mind.

But it did not go down well.