It is however remarkable that the gallery holder did not ask to see any of our products. She may consider Castillon’s artistic reputation over many years in a positive manner, and my diplomatic status in the same light, both as sufficient guarantee for quality. I must check if she took the trouble to visit my website. Nevertheless it appears that there in only an interest in filling the exposition agenda, and that the quality of the works are only secondary. De facto, she has no significant risk as she will get her pay anyway. If any works will be sold is not of direct importance, although a good sale record will without doubt increase the attractiveness of her gallery.
It is an illustration of the often difficult relation between artist and private galleries: different views, values and interests. The gallery mediating between ‘production/offer’ and the ‘market/demand’. Gallery and artist discussing as well on de ‘marketability’ of the work. Art critics and gallery holders clearly have a responsibility in this ‘mediation work’. What a pity that ‘market mechanisms’ are needed to get the works to the public.
Ivan and I still have to discuss the over-all set-up of the exposition. Will we seek some kind of coherence (theme, style?) or will it just be a parallel showing of our work?