THE MAD RUSH TO ART
What effects have COVID-19 lockdowns had on the art world? I’ve spent a lot of time posing this question over the past few months, and the responses have been wide-ranging. I’ve seen dozens of galleries disappear, unable to make their rent payments. I’ve heard dozens of artists say it was their worst sales year ever. On the opposite side of the spectrum, galleries and artists have said they are thriving, selling more art than ever. Walls stared at for months on end have needed new paint and new artworks; homes have been given a brand-new look. (If you stare at anything long enough, I suppose you can tire of it.) Now that we’re reaching critical mass, lockdowns are loosening, and people are feeling more free to travel, the pent-up demand seems to be…