From the Editor & Publisher

 

Spring has arrived and the long, dark, gloomy days of winter are behind us. With the increased daylight hours, blossoming flowers and warm comes optimism and signs of life. The same can be said of the nation’s economy. While the vast majority of us are keeping expenses down and analyzing what we need as apposed to what we want there are still collectors buying art at auctions, galleries, and shows. This winter posted record sales at auctions in Arizona and Idaho for western and wildlife art. There is a sign of hope that times may be improving and that we must remain vigilant and not give up hope. America has seen hard times before and has always bounced back.

 

While many state art is a luxury item that can only be purchased by the elite and there are collectors of lesser means still buying. It is true attendance is down at most auctions and shows this year, but foot traffic does not equal to sales. Despite tough economic times seasoned collectors are still buying and looking for opportunities that may have not previously existed. Some artist have lowered prices with their painting and sculpture and realize it is better to make less money on a sale than to have no sale at all.

This summer will see some of our favorite shows returning out west and some events taking place in Canada for the first time. With each auction, gallery opening and show there is cause for optimism, the opportunity for artists to earn revenue and collectors to acquire a long desired object of art.

Christopher J. Gervais
Editor & Publisher