Controversial Truth + Tips: Gatekeeping & the Subjectivity of Art

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👨 About the host Julien Delagrange:
Julien Delagrange is an art historian, contemporary artist, and the founder and director of CAI. Delagrange studied Science of Arts at Ghent University, Belgium, and worked for the Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR) in Brussels, the Jan Vercruysse Foundation, the Ghent University Library, and has contributed to the international contemporary art scene as an art critic, lecturer, curator, gallery director, consultant, advisor, and as an artist. As an artist, he is represented by Galerie Sabine Bayasli in Paris, France, and Gallery Space60 in Antwerp, Belgium.
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[@LeroyMorte]

The dog licking it's own arse is a very apt metaphor for the contemporary art market. Good work.

[@contemporaryartissue]

😂😂😂

[@DanielLopes-kv4sp]

Comments like that “to be polite” are not seemly, showing a lack of understanding. Don’t blame the messenger for bringing the message. Think how insults especially personal ones affect your reputation. Many of us are here for robust pragmatic instruction. We want to inform ourselves as to current events “in real time”. CAI in in the room, they are in the game, they are too, respected by the players. This forum informs me in so many ways especially in conversations with other artist. Whether at a gallery or other event. Such as open studios which we recently had here with many casuals and artist visiting from all walks of life- each a different purpose. Those who know high end market policy, politics and it’s power dynamics will know I know them too. Current, now, today with insights into tomorrow. It is important in the community of artist that we appreciate one another’s purpose. There is no greater respect then to show knowledge thru understanding. Not only for humans and artist but animals too. Goes a long way. May you find your place and it’s benefit to your purpose. No need to respond given your strong feelings I can imagine. Consider your words said. All best.

[@mosesinvests]

Thank you for this 😆 I was just thinking of the banana/duct tape piece.

[@grahameldridge4760]

Brutal, but valuable advice. I have taken this advice, and actually paused my practice until I feel that I have something unique and relevant to say with my art. It's a daunting prospect, but I found this video engaging and inspiring. Thank CAI

[@contemporaryartissue]

Hi there, I trust you have been well! Great to hear that you have found value in the advice. It is challenging, but it should indeed motivate, empower, and inspire. Go for it!

[@DanielLopes-kv4sp]

Never give in, never give in, never, never, never- in nothing, great or small, large or petty- never give in except to convictions of honor and good. -Winston Churchill Don’t dispute this. In the face of disparity, the human mind gets tricky it looks for a easy way out. Remember too, we are all moving towards an ending. We only have so much time and done. We take our last thoughts with us. What will be yours? The universe is waiting for you! Peace to you always that, if nothing else always that, as I don’t know the challenges you face. They are yours only.

[@artconspiracy]

I found your statement interesting. To my mind, the "unique and relevant" is discovered through working, through the practice. So how will pausing help?

[@TheCuratorialMethod]

Gatekeeping can come in so many forms--even in who is able to afford to take a job in the art world. And while rejection is inevitable, my (maybe counter-intuitive) advice that always seems to help is in those moments of frustration, and let's face it, sometimes despair-- look around and uplift others. When you offer assistance or help someone else out of any kind of jam or problem it transforms your attention and gets you focused on solutions and next steps from a place of generosity and strength. It's a powerful thing!

[@antondavidovic3996]

Art today is an amalgam of politics and trends. Those part of the "art scene" will deny it, but it is obvious to anyone who is outside of the scene and unaffected by bias. As a painter, I've been told that its not enough to paint "what I like" or what I "enjoy making" quite a few times. Excuse me? This life already requires you to do a lot of things you do not like or enjoy just to survive, why add onto that list, and voluntarily at that? What ends up happening is that a lot of artists sacrifice their authenticity just to appease the tastes of the gatekeepers. Also, you say that the "art elites" aren't the ones who dictate what is considered good art? I find it hard to accept your attempt at excusing them since they are a part of every commission that decides what will be exhibited in the first place. This is why I believe the best artists are those not affirmed by the "scene". Art has also become a form of high privilege. The ones that can already afford a better production in the first place will be the ones to impress the gatekeepers the most. You say you make interesting, thought provoking and relatable ink drawings? Pfft lets give another exhibition to Anish Kapoor and revere him some more since he spent a fortune on this massive block of clay... Fortunately today there are platforms far more relevant for displaying art than pretentious galleries...

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

Yes. I love sculpture. Go ahead as an individual, new, penniless artist & try to come up with an artwork that will fit in with yayoi kusama, & her massive installations, put together by a whole team.... the same as many artworks... LARGE is defining, & also eliminating.

[@contemporaryartissue]

It is unfair to state that is easy to make it in the art world if you simply follow the trends. You can try it, but if you don't love what you do, you'll never have the perseverance and passion it takes to get there. You should always create what you enjoy. If it it is not for the high-end art world, than perhaps you can opt to go for a different career path (art e-commerce, self-representation at art fairs, social media, starting your own gallery, etc.). I also disagree with your example; the ink drawings on old newspapers by William Kentridge outperform Anish Kapoor's expensive and monumental sculptures in the art world (based on the Artfacts algorithm mapping the careers of artists in the art world). I am sorry you feel that way, but it is simply not true. The art world is not your enemy.

[@stever2583]

Well said!

[@antondavidovic3996]

@@contemporaryartissue I agree with most of your reply. I don't mean to imply that the art world is an enemy to anyone, I'm just saying that where there are people there are politics and biases, and it is unfortunate that they are so apparent in the art world. William Kentridge is one of my top 3 artists, but what got him on the map was his sensational stop-motion animations that he made a while back. Once he already got established, any of his work will be viewed as something to be appreciated (i.e. ink drawings on old newspaper). The same can't be said for an artist who is not yet established. I don't mean to say that it's easy to make a break-through in the art world, I'm saying that an artist has to sacrifice a lot of his creativity and potential to achieve or maintain their relevancy, despite how difficult it is. Just look at how Philip Guston was ridiculed for making a move from abstract expressionism to cartoony figurative art. If he listened to the art scene, he wouldn't be as influential as he is today. Daniel Richter once gave a presentation at our academy, he said that being established kind of sucks because he is expected to paint the same things that got him famous and that it has become a chore. Most of my experience with the art world is from my city/country, and unfortunately they're *very* exclusive here. Here if you don't fall into line with what is considered "quality", your works will certainly get rejected. I've witnessed artists who make truly quality work get rejected over mediocre artists who are good friends with people from the commissions, nepotism at its finest. I can't speak for the entire art world, but I was appalled when the theme for the Venice Bienalle a few years back was feminism. Firstly a lot of male artists who probably deserved to be a part of the exhibition were rejected in favor of a predominantly female exhibition, secondly choosing predominantly female artists over males because of "feminism" underestimates women artists ability to compete with male artists in a fair competition. Its ironically mysoginistic.

[@rohitmadashri7250]

@@antondavidovic3996 I think you're trying to beat the dead horse "The art world is unfair", but Sir, it is given that the world is unfair at every level. You had the privilege of learning art, buying art supplies, getting exposure to galleries, books, experts and museums. A kid in some random village in Africa trying to survive day to day, wouldn't even dream of such privileges. How about that unfairness? What are you doing about it to make it a level playing field? As I understand, the world would always be churning with these questions, and I am glad to be a part of such conversation.

[@JOSEPHCHARLESCOLIN2024]

The art world of galleries hated me And closed the road. But I built my own road around them, and now collectors are getting a hold of me on their own.

[@memememineme]

I’m almost 100% certain the world of galleries did not hate you. You just hadn’t found the lid to your pot.

[@JOSEPHCHARLESCOLIN2024]

​@@memememineme - They hate me because in the description of all my art videos, there is a counter by the minute, and the minutes are the price of the paintings. I made a paintings with a new color medium on canvas and style, and I will not budge an inch on the price of my works. ... that is why so many push back and hate my prices

[@memememineme]

Thank you sooo much for not using those super cheesy stock video anymore! Great video. Straight up and to the point whether we like it or not it’s how things work. ❤

[@larsvangemerden9637]

It sounds a bit too much like “conform or get out” to me. Reminds me of my corporate job. Many of the greatest artists did not conform. I think most of the experts are at least partially in it for the money, so they are good at saying what their customers wants to hear. I would hope the art world would be the one place where money did not rule.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Understanding high-end art to elevate your own practice does not mean you have to conform. In fact, you need to know the rules to break down. As you say yourself, many of the great artists did not conform, and I feel this remains valid today as we're always looking for something new and refreshing. On the other hand, people who have no interest whatsoever in contemporary art always end up making the same type of artworks, which is fine if you are doing it to have fun. Think of the mixed media abstracts or pour painting, up to academic charcoal drawings and realistic portraits with some flowers around them. So who is creating art that is conform? All the successful artists are unique in their own way and stand out. That in itself is today an impressive achievement.

[@FredPoissonPainter]

I disagree with the opening premise that the work has to be great. I see a lot of mediocre work succeeding for various reasons.

[@sheldondrake8935]

at that level the art doesn't matter at all, only the price.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Yet, the work that you believe to be mediocre might be appreciated greatly by others. You can share this as your opinion-which I will always respect fully-but not as a truth. Nevertheless, thank you for tuning in!

[@FredPoissonPainter]

Actually, I still beg to differ. The cream doesn’t always rise to the top and we know there are actors manipulating the market and artist’s prices so it’s not all just personal opinion. If the art market were regulated there would be more cream at the top.

[@sheldondrake8935]

@@FredPoissonPainter it's highly regulated now, another word for that is 'corrupt'

[@JustTiisLeague]

@@contemporaryartissuebecause it’s not your truth? Oh please. Stop destroying the art scene.

[@momo2024_e]

please make a video on how to approach art galleries, curators or anyone if you already have a series of works ready and you think theyre good and strong enough to be shown.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Great topic suggestion, we'll definitely create a new video on this topic in the future!

[@aleksandramirjanacrossan4442]

i just watched the first minute and didnt hear a word you were saying cause I was watching the dog haha. Gotta go back and start again and pay attention this time!

[@contemporaryartissue]

😂😂😂

[@atoms-to-atoms]

A lot of common sense...well articulated!

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you!

[@georgescanvas]

Your channel has informative insights into the professional art scene. Congratulations. My own view of today's art scene is that It has been sucked into the vortex of global financialization. Art is no longer a depiction of cultural enlightenment. It no longer projects the human spirit. It is just a trendy asset class for the ruling class to indulge in.

[@giampaoloparrilla5514]

thank you as always for the precision and the great work you share! what do you think of the Catawiki platform? do you think it could be a valid tool for artists or galleries? Thank you! :)

[@KrautartBerlin]

Many of today's highly regarded artists have also been said to produce 'bad art'. But often they seem to have been visionaries that were ahead of their times and even created new art movements that are highly respected today...

[@contemporaryartissue]

Absolutely! In the end, time well tell, and great art will prevail.

[@ifychiejina1292]

Very helpful video. Those wishing to pursue the contemporary art world should always be mindful of the advice they are receiving from those who do not wish to pursue the contemporary art world.

[@contemporaryartissue]

I couldn't agree more. Thank you for tuning in and for a very relevant contribution!

[@christopherwelch5568]

This topic makes me irritated. I’ve been turned down by galleries that had crap hanging on their walls…. Posterized photoshop movie stills from Frankenstein…. and I am convinced it’s got nothing to do with your art. Getting a gallery manager to like you enough to represent you is more trouble than it’s worth.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Hi Christopher, sorry to hear your frustration! Another reason why it is important do you research and to be aware if your art is suited for gallery representation. It could also be because your approach was not right-cold calling, walk-ins with portfolios, and other unsolicited submissions are one of the most ineffective ways to find gallery representation. Feel free to watch some of our videos on that topic as well!

[@Jonpokras]

just love this guy all his vis are really, actually, helpful

[@dolphinboy9717]

The barrier to entry is low, and there is some misplaced belief that 'doing what you love' can make an artist a lot of money. Ford Maddox Brown kept a diary of the hours he spent on each painting. I went through all his entries and did the math: most of his well known works took a minimum of 900 + hours each of effort at the canvas. Many took 1500 hours or more. He logged only the hours at the canvas, not the extra stuff. a 900 hour canvas at 8 hours a day is 3.5 months. let that sink in.

[@noutbodyn4325]

I'm curious about your thoughts on the rise of Instagram artists who primarily create reels to gain fame, yet may have little to no formal art education or recognition from curators or collectors. Often, these artists even earn more than individuals associated with prestigious galleries. However, their work might consist solely of paint splatters reminiscent of Pollock's descendants. What's your perspective on this phenomenon? Do you believe their success challenges traditional notions of artistry and value, or do you see it as a potential dilution of artistic standards? Great video, getting smarter each video!

[@yopestevens1505]

Hmmm, I hear crickets. Why no answer to this question? I am also interested in your thoughts on this, CAI.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Hi there, thank you for tuning. Good question! I briefly discussed this topic in our video on how to become a successful artist with Instagram-feel free to watch that video next. In a nutshell, some of them do create some good work, others not, but what they all have in common is that they are predominantly good at creating online content that performs. The content is more important than the art itself. So it becomes only the question if they are professional artists or professional content creators? More info and thoughts in the video I mentioned :-) Have a great day!

[@ilsinco]

Trends rule the 'art (you gotta laugh) world'. In a world where no-one in an 'elite' position on the art scene has the spine or integrity (let's face it, it's big money we're talking here) to call out nonsense when it's blatant to everyone involved in benefitting from it, then quality isn't even a consideration because there's no 'bar', just the opinion and influence of the great pretentious minority. Pretentiousness among 'modern' artists is king today, but technical ability coupled with creativity is timeless and will regain it's rightful place with the help of education and courage. There are great artists out there, but In this contemporary world of pretentious charlatans (who are making a fortune), and pretentious sheep (who don't want to be seen as not clever or arty enough to 'get it') they will always play second fiddle to the bombastic. CAI is simply a result (victim or opportunist?) of this nonsense we're being spoonfed. Unfortunately, this is yet another video of complicity in the ruin of quality art, and by pointing it out (by commenting) I have probably given some aid to the scam. Ah well, the price of honesty.

[@parimahavani]

Amazing as always so useful and great! your videos really are great! could you in future videos represent in the art world hierarchy of following and learn from them how it should be? for example, I thought the Venice Biennale is very important however I noticed it is chosen by many governmental filter, then far different an much more interesting for me Venice Biennale is the most important art fair but somehow they have different perspectives and issues to focus on! and Role of Galleries and which is first important to consider? galleries? institutions? foundations? art fairs? Biennles? In video of The "Art world" Explained by you you explained but I would love to know more and deeper choose my direction! Many Many thanks

[@contemporaryartissue]

This is really a great topic suggestion! What path and order should you pursue as an artist. This also varies strongly on your artistic discipline. Great topic and I will most certainly cover it one day!

[@janetatuniquerawfoods2361]

Hi CAI… good to see you again and with thanks. I consider it wise to cover this mysterious subject that can play a part in the lives of many. Many who then impact even more lives… as art is so rooted in humanity. My gratitude especially for the list of galleries… thusly artists… to review. There is benefit to being aware I feel. Thank you. What is your do’s name please…if you want to share?. She looks like she is happy to be quietly hanging out with you. Sorelle Amore on KZbin has a video about the dark world of art. The gatekeepers in a way. Best not get our minds wrapped up in too much negativity… it still seems like a big opportunity. It’s true… I was in fashion design and even briefly was working with big names in NY graphic design. It’s a matter of overall quality…in some regards. And a big subject! Happy summer to the CAI family . Enjoy. Sincerely, Janet

[@contemporaryartissue]

Hi Janet, I hope you have been well! The pleasure is all mine. There is indeed a tremendous benefit in being aware about everything, it gives you the right context to shape your own path. Wishing you all the best!

[@musamusashi]

We seem to ignore the elephant in the room: most "high value" art today is money laundering.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Money laundering predominantly occurs in the secondary market via private sales and less in the primary art market. It is also a very small, yet criminal, fraction of the entire art world, so I would be unfair to blame all galleries and artists in the art world for this

[@stever2583]

What is clear is that the arguments you present are exactly the problems with art... Art is dictated by the people with the money! Period! Mathematics can be art... Simply ask the experts when a new method is brought forward by a new player or savant. Therein lies the difference it is in the art itself - those who can create on an entire new level are the Avant Garde. The experts in Art should fall away but they do not, they clutch their investments desperately to shield them against devaluing them. The entirety of the Art World is a Hoax - make no mistake! For the record - I am not some jilted artist or failed in any way... I have seen, and watched so many be raped and pillaged to steal from every artist. I make art when and if i feel like it... Those who know me either like and buy it or they don't. I don't give a fuck! The accurate rating of Art does not happen through experts - it is the power of the masses.

[@rohitmadashri7250]

Masses don't give a rat shit about art. Besides, they vote for Donald Trump.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Does art follow the money, or does money follow the art? Money is of course required to reach the very top of the art world. Most successful artists do not start out rich, but wealthy collectors and bigger galleries gather an interest in them. Not because of their money, but because of the potential of the art. Yes, also the economic potential, but this is intrinsically intertwined with the value of the art. If you believe people with money deliberately spend a lot of money to make bad art important, than you are just not thinking straight. I agree with the power of the masses, as I discuss this with the buttom-up gatekeeping in this video. In the end, if you don't want to have anything to do with the art world. That is fine. But why be so hung up and frustrated about it, decrying everything about it?

[@stever2583]

@@contemporaryartissue I don't decry the pretentious world of most "Fine Art" there is much to be admired... Ask yourself the one question the "experts" never ask! What did Pollock like, Okeefe, Klimt, Picasso, who did actual real artists like? Experts are like A Holes everybody thinks they are one. So in the classic tale of the real power behind the field we have a fiction - that the Dealers know and understand what is great art! The ability to give life to an eyeball is not in the hands of the "Experts (posers)" yet they become the diviners and prophets... Do not take my cynicism for naivete there are a great many Experts who know - just proportionately they are a mere handful in a sea of con-persons. Pollock hated the money grubbers and weasels... Hated the so called experts who could not carry a brush never mind use it! You skip the entirety of the dilemma - I was unfortunately gifted with a journeymans ability to create from my mind what I envision. The manipulation... The rules that that NON ARTISTS set... The royalties and fees, It is nothing more than the modern day drug world. Graft and greed with ZERO Talent behind the money trail. I for one stick with my circle of friends who are glad to gift our products to a selected few who cherish the thousands of hours required to produce some works. Yet in your world they might be offered 1000th of 1% of the value because they are not known. That is why art is mediocre at best - yes there are stunning works by incredible talent - sadley the truth is most of them are simply journeymen when few are true talents. Does art follow the money, or does money follow the art? From that point on you're simply passing on the BS. "If you believe people with money deliberately spend a lot of money to make bad art important, than you are just not thinking straight." There is a quote, for the life of I me I can't find it in this damn box: There is one perceived Genius in every 10,000,000 people THERE ARE 1000 Genius's in every 10,000,000 people. Galleries are only beaten in their failure rate by restaurants which have a 96% failure rate.

[@rohitmadashri7250]

Masses in my area like paintings of sunsets on beaches.

[@memememineme]

@@stever2583I have to say most of the experts that I have met in my art career reeeeally know their stuff. In fact they know more about art than most artists I know! They all have a great eye, have a deep understanding of art history and truly just LOVE art. My gallerist is not in it for the money but will support his artists PAYING them immediately regardless of if he sells the work on. I think there are many talented and uniquely good artists out there and as we know there are just too many in comparison to galleries so the proportions mismatch causing a lot of bitterness jealousy and frustration amongst artists and THAT is what is ugly about the art “scene”.

[@ArtDreamPainting]

Beautiful beautiful job ❤

[@martinmas8853]

Great Video. Congrats!!!

[@gregart6645]

I do agree with you that in order to create relevant art one must have a good understanding of historical and current art movements. However the key word here is movements (old master movements such as renaissance and rococo, classism, romanticism, realism, Barbizon, impressionism, symbolism, futurism, cubism, expressionist, avant-garde etc. etc.. to the modern movements). However, I would definitely not recommend to upcoming artists to look at art trends from the galleries that you mention. Even though the artwork can be very valuable and purchased by wealthy collectors and museums does not make the art great. Do not forget that museums constantly re-evaluate their collection over time and de-accession many works of art which did not stand the test of time even though they were considered the most important works when they were created. Those artists end up falling by the wayside and do not stand the test of time. On the flip side many of the greatest artists in museums today were not at all recognized as being great artists during their lifetimes, which is certainly the case today as well (let alone the galleries you mention.) Picasso was one of the greatest artists (if not the greatest) of the twentieth century because he was at the forefront of so many new and innovative art movements and had the versatility to change his works over time. Matisse did the same evolving to collages at the end of his life. Just like in many fields of work, experimentation, imagination, creativity, versatility, innovation and perseverance are the keys to a great artist.

[@gregart6645]

@@ELENAOttawa Hi Elena. Art is very democratic. I am not saying anything different in my comment above. What I am saying is that if you want to create important art that stands the test of time and transcend art being just a hobby to something more meaningful you need to have some reference to what has already been done and innovate upon it. I'm also saying that the commercial side of it is not a gauge of which art will stand the test of time and become important and relevant in the future.

[@Jonpokras]

Thanks!

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you so much, I greatly appreciate it! 🙏

[@Wunderhof]

*Lol* the experts. What you are describing is the behaviour of every ideology, every cult, every religion, autocracies, families even. Those who "believe" and behave in a certain manner, belong, they are the chosen ones, the only ones who can see the truth. And they confirm each other that they are right and all the others are wrong. And of course, it is true, that, if you want to succeed within these groups, you have to "see" the same things, believe the same things and defend them to everybody who is on the outside. It`s true, but not a very healthy behavior because it leads into dependency, aggression, depression and definitely into loneliness.

[@MrIrons-og3rg]

It is who sleeping with who

[@jarretttcamp]

I have to agree. Because I seeing the bigger picture. To be completely honest the art world some very harsh laws, however what he is opening up is structor of art is excepted in the artworld therefore if you want to go this route then he is telling. This is brutal however the art market is chaotic to navigate too and he is trying to fix it. Now they made things we don't like but we can just see it our not. I get it! Onces this is more understandable then in long run our artwork will become more valuable because the is a structure. This is what I'm seeing.

[@DanielLopes-kv4sp]

I’m hearing CAI say find your forum. Why are you here? CAI is pushing back critique time baby! I loved critique in art school! Sam Tchakalien would say to us, why are you in my class?

[@contemporaryartissue]

Hi Daniel, I trust you have been well. I really love that one; "why are you in my class?" Great question!

[@DanielLopes-kv4sp]

@@ELENAOttawa What your saying is true, then another truth. Some of us get lucky. Things come together in a way who knows how. I had the good fortune of studying at SFAI (RIP). I studied under Bruce MaGaw who studied under with Richard Diebenkorn and showed with him. Also had the luck of choosing to take a class by Robert Colescott who became world famous. He studied under world renowned Fernand Leger. Then there were teachers that you describe at Art Institute of Boston (RIP)/ Lesley University. Also the Butera school art Boston (RIP) and Escola de Belas arts de Superior (RIP) on independent study) Portugal. How ever most of my teachers did care; Marjorie Trenk, John Goell, Philip Hicken, Jason Berger, Barbra Myers and others. All these instructors engaged and strengthen me. Sam Tchakalian was a stand out and famous but more importantly a friend to me. Again are there crappy teachers the ones you mention?. Absolutely! It’s all a part and parcel in the becoming of the artist we are. Experience determines the art we make. Too how we look, view it. Luck determines the fame the fortune. The necessity of that is crucial when paired by the choices we make. Making good choices improves the odds. Then let et the chips fall where they may. In the end it’s as you say be happy and paint for the love of it. All best to you fellow artist😊

[@ralupintea9311]

Hello, I was wondering if you could make a video about art dealers

[@contemporaryartissue]

Great suggestion! Thanks

[@rene4603]

Excellent advice as usual. I have just finished listening to “ Get The Picture” by Bianca Bosker. Please let me know what you think of her view of the gallery / artworld.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you for your kind words! Interesting... I am not familiar yet with the work of Bianca Bosker, but I'll try to look into it!

[@dodgygoose3054]

Thank you

[@contemporaryartissue]

The pleasure is all mine!

[@nandkumarrane3390]

Very useful video

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you!

[@acs3451]

Great video! maybe you could do one on payment methods in the artworld.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Very interesting suggestion, I have written it down. Thanks!

[@acs3451]

@@contemporaryartissue looking forward to it :)

[@acs3451]

@@ELENAOttawa Elena, , first of all you dont know me so I think you should limit your comments on the actual comment in place. I think you are missing the point on this and sometimes the methods pf payments and timing may vary. I could be an interesting video. Best.

[@DanielLopes-kv4sp]

Got it!

[@contemporaryartissue]

Great!

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

Thanks for the video. I appreciate your channel. I must debate the 1st part of this video. It says: Controversy is rooted in the idea it's all subjective. So the argument goes, It's not subjective, because there is a consensus, between these top, educated, tasteful art world gatekeepers- scholars, curators, museums, collectors, critics, art galleries. And what have the chosen as top art in our day?? Balloon dog. As you consider this serious sounding discussion of this video, try inserting the word 'balloon dog' after every sentence spoken making claims about how the art world has consensus, not subjectivity, & see if you can still buy being told ''there really is substance" (that this 'consensus group' have a consensus on what good art... having consumed 1000s & 1000s of artworks...how it's not top down/ the 'noticed' artists all started at the bottom, worked their way up, so that proves it... it's the people... democratic... wah way)??? "Again: Balloon dog." [Btw, Banality is the art movement to go with Balloon Dog... banality = nothingness. The Emperor's New Clothes criticism is actually precise.... ... Or the idea to go beyond the surface. Do we mean like the 3D work of the pope lying on the ground with a meteor strike? Where does this consensus voice come from, to hold high such a work in our age? I've experienced absolute, stunning miracles through Christian faith, that tell me there is a wrong spirit underneath this love for disrespectful art. What leads these 'experts' to choose Pope lying on the ground, an artwork disrespectful of the faith of billions of people on our planet, to decide this work should be so popular? Emperor's New Clothes is real. Art IS subjective. Too bad wrong values support so much wrong art, from those who have power as gatekeepers. I would like to learn, as a true expression of this video. But I have learned to not trust the art world judgement for sincere reasons. I want to do contemporary art however, so I like the advice of this video. Learn from the right inspiration. Immerse yourself in the high end art world. Understand it. Before you could even begin to have any way to be part of it. I've looked at tons of art, especially gallery walk throughs, but there is no info about the art?? I'm reading books on top contemporary artists to know & one on contemporary spiritual art right now, so I hope it will help, because i finished art college, just learning the 'basics,' & I'm at a point of real struggle to now embark on developing my own style. Today was my first day to get back to work, & I felt stuck. This video arose at the perfect time; maybe it will help me. I don't want to do 'suck' art ha ha. I don't like realism. I get bored with not doing something new. Quitting is not an option; this IS my life calling, & I need to do something new, fresh, well conceived, strong. I pray & know much of my topic (to tell my story), but not my style on how to do it. I analyzed what I like in a lot of art- like bright areas of colors, etc, etc. (I like the suggestions: make list of 20 artists, you resonate with, which i hope i can achieve & gallery list. I hope i find them quick :) I will give this a try. We'll see. So I do find this advice valuable in the end. Thanks.

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

Good advice in the video, to remember: select 20 contemp 'benchmark' artists, that resonate with own practice, own creative urges. Learn from something you really like, but that is proven in the art world; artists you genuinely like. Gives list of galleries, to find the artists from; go through their portfolio of artists/ the ones you genuinely like. Pay attention to how sides completed; framing; how artists go about titles/ building a series/ communicate exhibition concept in such a series. How to they write/ talk about their art? Study them, follow, become them, while remaining true to your own vision

[@contemporaryartissue]

Hi there, thank you for tuning in and following the channel. Interesting debate of course. The experience of art is and always will be subjective. It is not an exact science. Yet, as in all subjective industries, there is a foundation of consensus among the people who are working professionally in those areas, not just in the arts. Yes, Jeff Koons has value and substance to his work. Yes, Maurizio Cattelan creates art that is relevant. It might not be your cup of tea, but thousands of others like it, and not just the gatekeeprs. Keep your eyes and mind open and continue to develop your own taste and vision. You don't have to like Koons and Cattelan. It is not an obligation to participate. What is however very useful and important, that is to understand that your opinion is also subjective, and therefore non conclusive. Try to understand and see that the art world is not your enemy, as there is enough art and niches out there for everyone. Sincerely wishing you all the best!

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

@@contemporaryartissue Thanks. I agree there are niches, such as the fact I am right now reading a work on Art + Religion of contemporary art. I may not have come across exactly as I hoped. I just see that values can play a big role, & unfortunately, much of what I've seen is that gatekeepers, top critics in New York, etc, top publications are anti-Christian, anti-religion. Yet I've experienced stunning, incredible miracles with simple prayer, by answers in daily Word sources, so specifically matching my prayers, so many times, (along with many people who died & were revived & saw a glimpse of the next life), that I know faith is true. It is not mythical. There is much rebellion against what is good, it seems, unfortunately in the main stream art world. It gives a sense the whole evaluation scheme is skewed. Yet, I know you are vastly more knowledgable about the current art world than I am, so I have much to learn. I am so IMMENSELY thankful for the list of galleries you gave in this video for guidance. I'm planning to spend the next few days (after yardwork, etc), going through every single one. Thanks for your input! I appreciate the 'spirit' of your presentations too. Thanks again.

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

@@contemporaryartissue It just hit me more that I misunderstood/ misrepresented what you were saying about subjectivity. I grasp it better now. Thanks

[@cchemmes-seeseeart3948]

@@ELENAOttawa I actually intend to be a missionary plus artist. And i PRAY about everything. I prayed about God's will for my life, & over 20 times, every single time, the daily Bible devotion spoke about artists. As the good book says, "As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above the ways of people' says the Lord." I am working 16 hour days to start an art business, & I had people try to demand i take on extra work as well. I prayed about this demand that day, & when I read a Bible devotion it was about a person facing a demand on them, to take on extra/ additional work & how it was not good or best for them! I've seen a miracle calling to be an artist & NOT to be distracted with my time taken from that right now. I am going full force without ANY interruption for the next year or 2 while I develop my personal art style, after years in college training. So this is how I make decisions & they've already been made. Blessings. Thanks for your input.

[@nielsverhaar6005]

I have a genuine question how do you judge the quality of the art work between a Modern abstract and a hyperrralistic oil painting. What makes an abstract so much better than a quality hyperrealistic

[@contemporaryartissue]

It is not always better-for instance, the hypperrealist artists from the 70s were very relevant and reputable, think of Chuck Close or Richard Estes. However, hyperrealism is also one of the most short-lived movements, because beyond the technical skill, there was not always that much to discover. As a result, the problem with hyperrealism is that is often solely technically impressive, and not artistically. If you replicate the photo and reality, what are you contributing? Where is the creativity? Where is the ambiguity or the conflict that elevates the image from being a snapshot of reality to a conversation piece? Et cetera.

[@nickrodis6862]

Salamat po

[@JustTiisLeague]

Most REAL artists have called it quits. Gatekeepers, gallerists and collectors are the new artists. And you, are part of this problem.

[@r-cdmx]

Sound, valuable information. 👌🏽✨

Great video, once again 🎉

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you so much!

[@contemporaryartissue]

@ Big thanks!

[@jmhatyoutube6283]

Gatekeepers have always claimed that the arts are better served when artists are captured and tamed by the Academy. Plus ca change....

[@gpasprimus6505]

You better like your art you buy it may be hanging for many years best have a best friend who is wealthy to buy your paintings and set the stage and price also expediates things nicely

[@laurawalker6431]

It’s like a doctor, if they had training then they would be qualified and they might be good or bad doctors but nevertheless they are still qualified to practice as a doctor. If an artist is untrained they can be good or bad but still untrained but that does not mean they can’t make their own art. Like an untrained doctor they might be able to study without training but you would be cautious about buying from them no matter how good they are…but there are exceptions to the rule, we have many who are self trained and are great artists!

[@SkywalkerPaul]

Wrong..

[@laurawalker6431]

@@SkywalkerPaul art is relative! There’s no right or wrong…

[@SkywalkerPaul]

@@laurawalker6431 I thought you said it isn't

[@laurawalker6431]

@@SkywalkerPaul the AI keeps changing what we write so frustrating!

[@laurawalker6431]

@@ELENAOttawa I agree! Watch the King Speach, the person who didn’t have any qualifications coached the King to speak and overcome his fears! Exactly what I said!

[@snoosebaum995]

most people value ART based on Karl Marx , 'labour theory of value ' hence creating a monumental pile of slop in an empty white box fails to impress . i would agree with CAI [ ?? ] that there is value in thought also.

[@mitchparker7652]

Valuable advice succinctly put.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you so much!

[@marusamusapusa]

Христос Воскрес.!!!

[@k.t.5405]

min 6:40 😲😲😲

[@FM-gu5kt]

I am a gatekeeper.

[@snoosebaum995]

i agree in general but look up george fertig , he was snubbed by a Vancouver clique of mediocre artists

[@katrinannify]

With all due respect but I disagree with opening. Many of contemporary artist rely on connections and PR and sometimes art is mediocre. But this art is appreciate by famous ar dealers or art collectors because they use that art to money laundering. So imo art can be mediocre and succeed.

[@contemporaryartissue]

Connections and PR can indeed be very important, but the art comes first as there needs to be a certain level of quality before they can use those contacts. And yes, a minuscule part of people-who are not necessarily part of the art world-use art to launder money. But this is in no way representative of how the art world works. Money laundering occurs only in the secondary market via private sales, which is a rather isolated event between two wealthy entities.

[@message_service]

Thank you 😊

[@contemporaryartissue]

My pleasure!

[@DakotaFord592]

When you see a crappy painting selling for millions. Immediately think about money laundering. There is probably some criminal activity going on. Maybe not from the artist. But from the people who are purchasing that art. It's just a way to move money around. It's a scam to avoid taxes.

[@teknographica]

Thanks for this tip. Simple, logical and direct. As the Ghostbusters said, “I am the gate-keeper!”

[@contemporaryartissue]

The pleasure is all mine, thank you for tuning in!

[@KpxUrz5745]

At the outset, sorry, I must reject everything I hear in this video, despite it's "foreign accent", which we all know so often interjects some sense that it is "intelligent". I've been around a long time, and I reject anything and everything attempted here. There is an overwhelming, even immense, sense of "The Emperor's Clothes", suggested here. I see no talent alive today. I try, but cannot envision any talented artist existing once deKooning died. And he was not the only one. Before him, we had Arshile Gorky and Picasso, whose death I well recall as a turning point in art. If anyone left has any talent, PUHLEEEEEZE show it to us! I am not saying that Art is Dead. I am simply saying that today's Art is chock full of hapless and hopeless poseurs! The better living artists remain still unknown yet. That must be true, unless there are NO good living artists anymore!!!!

[@seanfaherty]

Bad art succeeds all the time. Don’t bullshit. There is good art we might not like and then there is shit, pure unadulterated shit. We’ve all seen it.

[@contemporaryartissue]

If you refer to Broodthaers, Cattelan, or Anish Kapoor when saying bad art, then you would be surprised how many people enjoy those 'bad pieces,' including myself. Thank you for tuning in!

[@seanfaherty]

@@contemporaryartissue I am not , I am referring to the waste of paint and canvas I recently saw at a gallery. They seemed to think if they made it huge the elements of design wouldn’t matter. We know that they do.

[@susanparsons9365]

G

[@stevenwilliambaylessparks3730]

Useless artists and galleries ignoring the Gaza Massacre. .

[@tonelo7207]

Art does not have to be political.

[@stevenwilliambaylessparks3730]

@@tonelo7207 by remaining silent on attacks on humanity, it is complicit in its destruction

[@loriwakefield1]

Thanks!

[@contemporaryartissue]

Thank you so much, Lori. You're the best! Have a great day

[@loriwakefield1]

@@ELENAOttawa I do not get this impression