Art gallery owners, like numerous businesses, are finding sales difficult these days. With houses being foreclosed, unemployment continuing to rise and the threat of layoffs ever-present, many gallery owners are struggling to stay open or having to drastically change the way they do business. Galleries throughout the country are closing their doors. During the past two years, dozens of established galleries have closed in Manhattan, NY alone.
Both artists and gallery owners are feeling the crunch and now, more than ever, need to be supportive of each other. Only the most dedicated, brightest and energetic of gallery managements will survive the current economic turmoil. Through innovative marketing and belt tightening they will hold on to see brighter days. Galleries know that there are still people with a secure income and/or money to spend. However the numbers will not be what they were in past years. The newer galleries are most vulnerable. They have not yet established a strong, proven track record with a proven client list or learned to cope with adversity. Only the very best of gallery ownership and management will continue to create and sustain a market in the face of today’s economic challenges.
From the artist’s perspective while some galleries may go under, the artist need not. They can continue to produce, building a quality inventory while seeking venues to sell their art. With some their art may become part-time while they focus on keeping a roof over their head by working in another field. Most importantly both the artist and gallery owner must believe that great art will ultimately survive difficulties. Creativity continues to be the key: The artist must continue to create exceptional fine art and the galleries must be creative with their marketing strategies.
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