The aftermath of the Second World War in New York brought a new era of art, introducing revolutionary styles and techniques. The Abstract Expressionists slowly solidified New York City as a noteworthy art hub, surpassing Paris.
In recent years, there has been a shift from traditional art in the city as artists explore new ways to share their art with viewers. In this guide, you will learn more about art in New York City, from the exhibitions to attend to the best ways to care for your art.
Upcoming Art Exhibitions in New York City
It doesn’t matter if this is your first rodeo or if exhibitions are a regular occurrence for you, here are some that are an absolute no-miss!
- Solid Gold at the Brooklyn Museum: From November 16 2024 to July 6 2025, explore the beauty of gold with over 500 pieces. Discover designs from the likes of Anna Sui, Christian Dior; jewelry from Belperron, Cartier, and Vendura. The museum is open from 11 am to 6 pm.
- Figures and Forms at MoMA: The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden is a must-see, with the exhibition running till Spring 2025. It brings together works from 20th and 21st century artists like Lynda Benglis and Joan Miro. Simone Leigh’s Sentinel will be making a debut here.
- Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876 – Now at the Met Museum: From November 17 2024 to February 17 2025, explore close to 200 works from an exploration of over 150 years of artistic and cultural production.
- Harmony and Dissonance: Orphism in Paris, 1910-1930 at Guggenheim: Over 90 artworks will be exposed in the museum’s rotunda, examining the abstract art of Orphism. Enjoy works from artists like Robert Delaunay, Marcel DuChamp, and Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso from November 8 2024 to March 9 2025.
- Collection in Focus: Piet Mondrian, Ever further at Guggenhein: This exhibition explores the work of Piet Mondrian, a Dutch-born abstract artist. Running from November 22 2024 to April 20 2024, the exhibition will showcase the evolution of his signature style, from his earliest works to his final years in New York.
The Importance of Art Fairs for Emerging Artists
In the contemporary art market, art fairs are an incontournable for artists and their audiences; a means for collectors to explore new art and for artists to showcase their work. Navigating this space might be daunting for new artists. However, they are important for the following reasons:
- Whether you are attending big fairs like Art Basel or Frieze or others like the Affordable Art Fair or the TEFAF New York Art Fair, these are a great networking opportunity. As a new artist, this is your chance to build relationships with the top dogs in the art world, gain valuable insight, and meet more experienced artists.
- Although there is no guarantee that you will get sales during art fairs, they are a great avenue for exposure. This is your chance to expose your art to a large audience, and even get feedback from them directly! This can help you understand better how people appraise your work.
- In addition to exposure and sales, art fairs are a direct learning experience. You are rubbing shoulders with experienced artists, and this is a great way to keep yourself updated on current market trends, history, and so much more.
If you decide to take the leap and attend an art fair, here are some practical tips for you:
- Choose the right art fair. Focus more on fairs that represent the art you are putting out. Research them and check the work they have previously shown to make sure your target audience is among the people attending.
- Consider the logistics. Will transportation be a problem? Is the venue too far from you? Will it be too costly to transport your artwork? If it is financially sustainable, then go right ahead.
- Check the additional fees. In addition to paying for a stand, will you have to pay fees for other services such as PR? Again, if it is financially viable, then you can consider it.
Before you embark on this, remember that there is truly no guarantee of getting your investment back from art fair sales. So, consider all your options before taking the leap.
Virtual Art Tours: Exploring Museums from Home
On those rainy or gloomy days when stepping outside would be a sin, virtual art tours save the day. They are a great way to enjoy the beauty of art without leaving the comfort of your home. Although these virtual tours can never replace the real thing, they do have some benefits:
- Accessibility: No need to take the train or book a flight to discover new art pieces. Virtual art tours give you a preview of everything as if you were in the museum.
- Information and Education: At museums, there is usually a limit on how much information can be added to the exhibitions. With virtual tours, you have a glimpse into more than just the essentials.
- Time: There are no opening or closing times with virtual tours. So, you can explore the art at your own convenience and for as long as you want.
- Conservation: Some valuable art works need proper conservation, and with virtual tours, they can get the tender loving care they deserve. This is a win-win situation, where you can enjoy them without getting them exposed to harsh and unfavorable conditions.
If I have managed to convince you to embark on the adventure of a virtual tour, here are some I think you should consider:
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: The Met 360 Project invites viewers to enjoy the art in an innovative and immersive way.
- The British Museum: Take a virtual tour from the entrance of the museum and visit over 60 galleries. You also have the option to book an expert on Zoom.
- Louvre: Enjoy the museum galleries and admire the architecture from the comfort of your couch or while enjoying a coffee during your lunch break.
How to Attend an Art Opening: Tips and Etiquette
Art galleries are fascinating places, each of them having a specific energy and atmosphere. I know just how easy it is to get sucked into this contagious energy.
However, the last thing you want to do is make a faux pas. So, I am going to guide you through the proper etiquette to keep your day fun and insightful while respecting the artists and their art.
- Dress Code and Appropriate Attire: Fashion, just like art, is a very touchy subject for a lot of artists as it is an avenue for expression. So, do well to dress appropriately. Follow the dress code if there is one. If there isn’t, going smart casual would be your best bet. If you can, wear an outfit that complements the theme of whichever art opening you are going to watch.
- Use Social Media Sparingly: Now, I am not saying you have to be off your phone completely. But what’s the point of going to an art gallery if you are just going to be on your phone the entire time? It defeats the entire purpose. Try to be as present as you can, do not live the experience out through your phone. There are some emotions and intricacies that your camera will never capture. Also, endeavor to always ask for permission before taking pictures of the artwork.
- Do Not Touch: Yes, those colors are vibrant and the strokes are masterful, but do not approach the art! Keep your hands to yourself and express your admiration through your words. Let out rapturous sighs of pleasure and even moans of delight. Keep your distance, however, as you might even be blocking others’ view by standing so close.
- Keep Your Voice Down: Yes, I know you are excited. The art is beautiful, the theme is spectacular, and the colors are inspirational. However, please do well to keep your voice down. Use your inside voice when talking to others. Also, take your phone off the ringer. Nobody needs to hear the ping sound of your notifications. If you must answer a call, step outside.
- Network and Engage: Art exhibitions are social events and a great opportunity to meet like-minded fellows and strike interesting conversations. Even if you do not agree, give people a chance to express their opinions. Engage in thoughtful discussions and ask open-ended questions that encourage the artists or other viewers to give their perspectives. If you can, get the artists’ inspiration.
- Purchase Art: If you can, support the artist by purchasing their art. Sometimes, the price of art is next to the piece. If it is not, it is best to ask the artist directly. If it is above budget, ask them once only if there is some room for adjustment. Please do not press, else it can be seen as an insult. If you do purchase the art, please ask for a receipt and documentation.
How to Care for and Maintain Your Art Collection
Now that you have purchased your art, here are some aftercare tips:
- Do not hang in direct sunlight. Over time, exposure to the sun can damage the canvas or cause the pigment to fade.
- Clean your art. No, I do not mean to wash it literally. Use a soft-bristled brush and dust over the surface of the painting to get rid of dust or dirt. Every 4 to 6 months, you can have a look at the piece under the glass to make sure it is still intact.
- No moisture. Make sure you keep your art away from moist and damp places such as showers or sinks. So, as strong as the urge to hang the painting over the sink so you can look at it while doing the dishes, resist it.
- Store your art carefully. If you paid for this art, then it clearly means a lot to you. So, do whatever you have to do to protect it. Wrap it, if you are travelling; box it to keep it safe from getting damaged.
- Mount it properly. The best way to mount your art is overmounting. This traditional way of mounting artwork is achieved by wedging the art carefully between a mat board and a backing board.
- Do what is best for the art. Canvas, glass, and paper paintings have different aftercare procedures. Find out from the artist and care for your art following practical recommendations.
- Call professionals. Reach out to a conservator over time to restore your art and bring it back to life.
Conclusion
You are finally ready to become an art collector!