Yes! Cynically manipulative.
That is how I interpret them as well. Helen Steiner Rice vs. Robert Frost. However, I completely respect that others enjoy and find peace in them.
You wrote, "However, I completely respect that others enjoy and find peace in them."
I don't. Kincaid plays people for sentimental saps, suckers, marks, and there's usually a backlash once folks know they've been had--especially when they realize that expensively framed monstrosity in the living room will never, ever appreciate. That backlash, when it comes, will be felt throughout the painting profession. I won't presume to speak for all artists everywhere, but from my perspective, the man is bad for business.