Crossword Genius

Keener row about modern artist (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

thirstier

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'keener' is the definition.
Both the definition and answer are comparative adjectives. Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'row about modern artist' is the wordplay.
'row' becomes 'tier' (a tier is a row of things).
'about' indicates putting letters inside.
'modern artist' becomes 'hirst' (artist Damien Hirst. I am not sure about the 'modern' bit.).
'tier' going around 'hirst' is 'THIRSTIER'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for thirstier that I've seen is " needing more water".)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app