The Art Dealer's Apprentice: Behind the Scenes of the New York Art World

The Art Dealers Apprentice is a memoir that recounts the author's journey into the New York art world, where he learned the roles of dealers, auction houses, runners, collectors, and experts, as well as the personal histories of famous artists and the art historical importance and salability of their work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 05 March 2024
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Art Dealers Apprentice is a captivating tale that delves into the intricate world of the art business, offering a unique perspective on the experiences of a young Midwesterner who ventured to New York in 1989. With determination and a keen eye for opportunity, the author secured a job at an esteemed Upper East Side gallery, where he found himself under the mentorship of Carla Panicali, an Italian countess and prominent figure in the international art scene. Carla, an extraordinary woman whom the author deeply admired, became his guiding light, imparting invaluable lessons on navigating the treacherous waters of authenticity, power, and money within the art business and his personal life.

As gallery director, the author embarked on a challenging journey, steering the gallery through a sea of fakes, frauds, and unscrupulous colleagues, competitors, collectors, and experts. Through his unwavering dedication and astute leadership, he successfully navigated the complexities of the art market, until the unfortunate event of the art market crash in the early 1990s. This crisis brought forth a profound questioning of the author's friendship with Carla, as he began to doubt the authenticity of their bond in the increasingly money-driven art world of the 1990s.

The Art Dealers Apprentice is not merely a story about the art business; it is a comprehensive exploration of the roles played by dealers, auction houses, runners, collectors, and experts. The author delves into the personal histories of famous artists, shedding light on their artistic achievements, struggles, and the profound impact their work has had on the art world. Moreover, the book sheds light on the art historical importance and salability of paintings and sculptures, highlighting the often surprising factors that determine their value. It discloses the intricate processes involved in authenticating and selling artworks, revealing the sometimes dubious practices employed by dealers and collectors.

The author also provides a glimpse into the international business landscape, where art transactions took place. He sheds light on the illicit transport of artworks, the use of payoffs to experts, and the establishment of Swiss bank accounts as common practices. The author's growing disillusionment with the art business is evident throughout the book, as he questions the true essence of art and its place in the world. By the early 1990s, the art business had transformed into a realm where money and power overshadowed the genuine appreciation and love for art.

In conclusion, The Art Dealers Apprentice is a captivating and informative book that offers a deep insight into the world of art dealing. Through the experiences of the author, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of the art business, its complexities, and the ethical dilemmas that arise. The book serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of authenticity, integrity, and the pursuit of true artistic excellence in a world often driven by greed and superficiality.

Weight: 549g
Dimension: 236 x 160 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538189672