In my new monthly essay in The Critic, I examine the fatal fallacy in the Yuja Wang image – look at me, but don’t look at me – and how an artist’s self-exposure can wreck a potentially important career. Here’s how it begins:

Onto a stage bounds a young woman in a backless gown slit up to the hip, or a micro-dress cut an inch below the butt. That’s right, I’ve turned into a fashion critic. And the moment these words appear I shall come under a social-media onslaught for committing the unforgivable male offence of reporting what a female artist wears, instead of how she plays.

My defence is that Yuja Wang does everything possible to draw attention to her appearance. She habitually changes costume in a concert interval to show more leg and she feeds the internet with a stream of selfies in halter tops and skimpy shorts.

Tap “Yuja Wang” into your phone and you’ll get the full flaunty. Yet, under present rules of permitted speech, it is not supposed to affect our judgement of who she is and what she does. Well, let’s breach that taboo and see what happens….

Read on here.

By way of further self-exposure, Yuja had her latest promo photo taken by Geoffroy Schied a professional Munich photographer. Her caption reads: ‘When beach vibes and rehearsal vibes are the same thing.’

The Tension Between Image and Artistry

Yuja Wang has long been a subject of fascination—not only for her musical abilities but also for her bold fashion choices and unapologetic personality. Often seen wearing striking, glamorous outfits that contrast with the traditional, more reserved image expected of classical musicians, Wang has become a symbol of breaking conventions. Yet, this defiance of norms comes at a cost.

On one hand, her style, confidence, and ability to captivate audiences have garnered her legions of fans, especially among younger generations who are eager to see classical music evolve beyond its traditional confines. However, this same image sometimes distracts from her artistry. Critics and purists argue that her focus on performance and appearance occasionally overshadows the depth and seriousness of her musical talents.

The Pressure of Perfection

Yuja Wang’s reputation has reached a point where expectations for her performances are extraordinarily high. With such a global following, she is constantly under scrutiny, and her every move—both on and off the stage—is dissected. This pressure to maintain her flawless image while also delivering groundbreaking performances can be overwhelming. In the classical music world, where tradition and technical mastery are paramount, Wang’s trailblazing style and unconventional approach can be both a blessing and a burden. For some, her experimental nature feels out of place, while for others, it is a refreshing breath of air.

Art vs. Entertainment

At the heart of the debate lies the tension between being an artist and an entertainer. While Yuja Wang has proven herself as an exceptional artist, her larger-than-life persona and performances often blur the lines between art and entertainment. Her flamboyant dress, dynamic interpretations, and sometimes provocative stage antics contribute to her celebrity status, but this can also make it difficult to be taken seriously by critics who value tradition above all else.

In a world where classical music is often viewed as serious and reserved, Wang’s willingness to embrace both the artistic and entertainment aspects of performance has been divisive. Her fans adore her for challenging the status quo, while critics argue that she sometimes sacrifices musical depth for spectacle.

Can Yuja Wang Truly Have It Both Ways?

The question of whether Yuja Wang can have it both ways—balancing her image as a trailblazer in classical music with the unrelenting demands for perfection in her craft—remains unanswered. She is often forced to walk a tightrope, where every note she plays and every outfit she wears is scrutinized. Wang may have to decide whether she is willing to prioritize artistic expression over public perception, or whether she can continue to merge her passion for music with her desire to be a cultural icon.

Ultimately, Yuja Wang’s journey is about finding her own equilibrium between the demands of the classical music world and her desire to innovate and inspire. While it may be impossible for her to please everyone, there is no denying that her extraordinary talent and undeniable impact on the classical music scene have left an indelible mark on the industry. Whether or not she can have it both ways, one thing is certain—she is not afraid to define her own path.