Ep 79. Michele Flournoy, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy; Richard Serra On His Drawing Retrospective at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Michele Flournoy, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, and Richard Serra, renowned artist, sit down with Charlie Rose for an insightful episode of the Charlie Rose show. Flournoy discusses her vital role in shaping the policies that protect the nation and shape its global relationships. Through her position, Flournoy oversees a wide array of critical activities that aim to advance defense, diplomatic, and intelligence priorities globally. Rose digs deep into Flournoy's past experience as an intellectual thinker and a trusted adviser to policy makers through her time at the Center for a New American Security. Through her commentary, she offers thought-provoking insights into the complexities involved in building sustainable peace, battling terrorism, and engaging global partners.

The second half of the episode features an extensive conversation with Richard Serra, one of the most celebrated sculptors in the art world. Serra opens up about his latest retrospective exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which features 90 of his never-before-seen drawings. Serra's medium is unconventional, even for him, as he is typically known for his metal sculptures. However, he has been working steadily with ink and paper for the past few decades. In his own words, "drawing is a way of thinking."

In a remarkable discussion with Charlie Rose, Serra explains how his artistic process has evolved over the years. He reveals his unique ability to conceptualize a space and create a structure that both conveys meaning and dwells within its own boundaries. Serra opens up about his own views in terms of what art can and should be, and what his hopes are for the future of the art world. Through his conversation, Richard Serra offers a look inside the mind of an artistic genius, whose work brings a sense of purpose in the face of change.

Overall, the episode is both a thought-provoking and insightful examination of both the political and artistic worlds. With a balance of intellectual and artistic commentary, Charlie Rose provides viewers with a complete and immersive look at how humanity interacts with its surroundings and how we can shape our future in the pursuit of peace and prosperity.