But as the photographs in this smart show demonstrate, they continue to exert their appeal, on photographers and audiences.
So this is the week to study the difference between the first smart, satirical animated show and its many imitations.
That's what really sets the smart shows apart from all the other television road kill: when they're gone, they're not forgotten.
And I thought it would raise my stock around town to be one of the forces behind this smart, well-reviewed show.
This smart show brings together the work of six photographers and a painter for whom graffiti have served as either subject matter or inspiration.
And the prospects for the next generation of smart shows are promising.
"There is no way I could put up a show this smart and this sensitive."
Fourteen artists have fun with sports in this smart and playful show.
"Brotherhood" can be easily dismissed as another smart but overly cozy show about loyalty and family love.
What is new and disconcerting is that the smartest shows are following a similar pattern.