The Future of Galleries

Artist Ramon Trif uses his room's wall to paint on.

Galleries Have Always Been Standard

 
Since the dawn of humanity, dating back to cave paintings being discovered, it is clear that a space is typically assumed to exhibit one's artwork. After all, it goes hand in hand with logic: I have this object I need to show off, so I'm going to need somewhere to put it. Cavemen did this by painting directly onto stone walls. The Renaissance, known for history's greatest masters all used cathedrals, castles and museums to immortalize its masterpieces.

What Could Cause an End to Traditional Galleries?

 
You would never think that any factor could cause a decline or all out elimination of such a simple commodity. How could displaying artwork among walls and within gallery spaces be done for? I'll admit that I never envisioned even in my darkest prophecies that something would come along and bring the reliance of galleries to a halt. This indeed arrived in the form of a globally-scaled health pandemic. It's not my style to discuss serious outside topics that may come off gloomy, but I'm making an exception with this one. The reason I feel is so important as it pertains reserving the future of art and its display. The pandemic hit us full force and sent us into a three-month lock down back in March of 2020. Now, it's July and the world has permanently changed. By permanent, it means forever. What we knew as standard, is simply not returning. That's a reality I'm choosing to accept now rather than later. I'm the type to look to adapt, not perish; to push forward and create a new solution if one isn't present. It's how one evolves. When there's a great challenge or pressure being applied and challenging your way of Life, you respond with "fright or flight". Meaning, you either perish your pursuits or you iron yourself into a stronger version that handles the new environment.
So, the million dollar question is, where do we go form here as Artists? What now?

Pressure Forms Diamonds

 
The adage of pressure forming diamonds is a saying that rings true more than you may believe. Not everyone can attribute to being good under pressure, but to those that persevere comes a great new strength. Artists make fine pioneers in my opinion when they're focused, as they excel at coming up with ideas and solutions for issues. It has to deal with the way our eyes and mind are trained. In a way even our spirit is trained to see beyond what is in front of us, so that we may find resolution in chaos. For an Artist to lose their way of Life, their livelihood, their very happiness is something that will not be left undone. Art is one of the most stimulating and healing elements we as humans enjoy about Life. It is one of the most ultimate forms of self-expression, one in which has the power to take your being to a higher level of Love and understanding. For this absolute reason, I know in my heart we will reinvent Art altogether if that's what it takes.

What is the Future of Art?

 
Time to put my Nostradamus hat on! It is in my personal prediction and professional observation that the "normality" of things will not return in regards to public events. Even if permissions legally returned for full capacity gatherings, I don't see in any way "full capacity" being what it used to be. I'd bet "full capacity" will be reduced by 50% at least of the usual load, for safety of health. Whether the pandemic is 100% authentic, or if it's exaggerated in any way, it's not going to make a difference in stopping the change that's coming. As a Curator since 2011 I was personally in denial about everything taking place, but I've come to accept the inconvenience and use it as a means to transform the Gallery Scene. What exactly do I have in store? I can't say just yet as I don't want to spoil the surprise. however I believe it will provide Artists that same feeling of pride, joy and accomplishment once they partake. Please stay connected with my Blog and you will be sure to see the announcements in due time! until then fellow Artists, hang in there! You can still paint and show it off online, on live streams, live paint at a park or outside your home. Meetups are still possible so long as you keep them intimate and take the proper precautions. It's all about adapting! I believe the Art World will grow for the better after all this is said and done. I have full faith in us.