Last friday I went to several gallery openings in both River North and the West Loop. I started in a space that was oriented towards crafts, glass and sculpture, though there was some painting and photography. There were three floors of pieces and it was clear that each area was dominated by a particular artist. Scattered throughout were works by others who I assume are lesser known. I guessed that association with bigger name artists is part of the rather vague structure of the gallery system. For people breaking into the scene, exhibiting work alongside someone like Arturo Herrara or Kehinde Wiley is a valuable form of promotion.
As we discussed in class, the rooms were peopled mainly by collectors, artists and dealers. There were also a lot of students. It was easy to tell the difference between these populations. For the most part, anyone under the age of 30 seemed to be along for the ride and the wine rather than for business, shopping or networking. The setting was pleasant and accessible however--not at all condescending.
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