Artist Jonathan Grossmalerman Adopts Productivity System Amid Art Market Changes

Artist Jonathan Grossmalerman describes significant shifts in the art world since returning after an 11-month absence, noting the emergence of new markets and increased demand. He joined gallery Nozzlebaum & Gack, contrasting it with established names like Gristle & Windsor, Frankly, Fergus & Pishaw, and Hauser & Wirth. Grossmalerman mentions Chinese collectors now actively purchasing art, compensating for his previous base of despots and strongmen. He references an artist ranking system developed by someone in Los Angeles, highlighting the city's growing art scene. To manage his workload, which includes preparing for a museum show in Essen, writing a script, and producing this ArtReview column, he adopted the Rod Verplanck productivity method from the book "Extreme Productivity: The Rod Verplanck Method Made Less Alienating." This system involves creating lists, such as Projects and Next Actions lists, to reduce stress and improve organization. Grossmalerman works with 11 assistants and faces personal challenges, like forgetting to pick up his daughter from Mount Sinai Hospital after surgery and managing studio assistants' emergencies. The article, published in the Summer 2015 issue of ArtReview, reflects his chaotic yet productive studio life as he navigates art fairs and market pressures.