The hoopla surrounding Art Basel is six months behind us now, which is why it’s as good a time as any to step back and assess our current art scene. We’re in the midst of a new phenomenon going on in our own back yard. Art as a new commodity: a cultural spectacle of entertainment.
Yet, under the surface, one can detect signs of discontent and frustration: Our real estate boom (now doomed and caused to some extent by Art Basel) drove up prices, changed the urban landscape and curbed our buying power. Believe it or not, life is harder now for many artists and alternative spaces. More people are realizing that between all the planning and executing, plus the post-Basel syndrome that ensues, the fairs drain the local scene’s energy from November to January. What’s left?
Paradoxically, because of the fair phenomena and the relative success they’ve enjoyed, artists have gotten comfortable and reclusive (waiting for their shows to happen all over again). What’s worse, many see themselves as sort of heroes who can operate —simultaneously — inside and outside the market environment.... (more here).
3 comments:
dont forget.... six months behinds us, is also 6 months in front of us....
Well said!
I defenitely see the bust side I things... I hate to say it! I grew up going to art shows at 'The House' while it was still in an old florida style house some where around 20somthing street. Small parties with local artist... Now I see the so called art scene as a huge spetacle. Unfortunately it's almost like a joke. I'm not saying that the art is not out there and that many people are not doing what they can to stay true to the art, but it's almost too much these days. I saw many personal friends of mine come up the ladder thanks to the likes of people like Dorsch, but what's next? To tell you the truth I'm a bit board of the routine and they way our city does exactly that...booms then busts... To top it off I also have an investment house sitting, rented off North Miami and 52nd... I gues I'm to blame too :)
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