Several weeks ago, I shared my thoughts on why keeping politics out of your art business can be a sound strategy. While I still believe this approach helps maintain focus and professionalism, it’s hard to ignore the recent 2024 election results and the ripple effects they might have on our world—and more specifically, on the art market.
The conversations I’ve had since the election reveal a full spectrum of emotions. Some artists I know feel a renewed sense of hope, while others express deep concerns about what’s coming next. As I’ve reflected on the landscape before us, I want to offer a perspective rooted in my experiences across three decades in the art business.
Since the early ‘90s, I’ve seen the art world navigate through massive shifts—the dot-com bubble, 9/11, the Middle East conflicts, the Great Recession, major elections, a global pandemic, social unrest…the list goes on. Each of these events felt monumental, and each time, we wondered what effect they would have on the world of art. And, as always, the world kept turning, and art continued to matter deeply to people. In fact, it often mattered more.
Through it all, art has served as a constant—a way for people to find peace, beauty, and perspective. Collectors continued to acquire pieces, and artists kept creating. The experiences of the last few decades have taught me that, if anything, challenging times underscore the value of art in people’s lives. Art connects us, brings calm amidst chaos, and allows people to bring a slice of beauty into their homes.
That said, I won’t deny that times like these can make the art market more challenging. There are years when sales flow easily, and others when we feel a bit more friction. Yet, sometimes events we expect to have major impacts on our business don’t end up affecting us nearly as much as anticipated. Case in point: this year has been strong for us at Xanadu Gallery. Just a day after the election, we saw one of our biggest days of the year. Collectors were still coming in, still passionate about bringing art into their lives.
So, how do we approach times like these, as gallery owners and artists alike? What should we do when the world around us is unpredictable or when events unfold in ways we might not have wished? My advice is simple: keep creating, keep sharing, and keep building relationships. Focus on what matters to you and your work.
And remember the classic British slogan: Keep calm and carry on. Anxiety and panic don’t serve us well in times of change. Instead, our strength as professionals in the art world lies in our resilience. As we cope with challenges and adapt to them, we lay the foundation for long-term success—not just in business, but in our lives.
Certainly, it can be difficult not to get caught up in emotions, especially when we face so much uncertainty. The art world is no stranger to both joy and fear. But each time we push forward and continue to do the work we love, we strengthen our resolve and become even more resilient. And really, what is the alternative?
For me, the answer is to keep showing up. Today, as I head into my day at the gallery, I look forward to the conversations I’ll have, the collectors I’ll meet, and the art I’ll share with them. For those of us in this business, this is the core of what we do—offering people beauty, inspiration, and maybe a little bit of peace in a world that doesn’t always feel peaceful.
If you’re an artist, gallery owner, or art lover, I’d love to hear your thoughts: how do you stay grounded during unpredictable times? Do you feel your art practice or business shifts in response to current events, or do you find solace in consistency? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments, and if you’re not already subscribed, join the blog to stay connected.