Italian Gallerists on the Future of Art Galleries Amid COVID-19 Crisis

The article collects opinions from six Italian gallerists on how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting their businesses and the art market. Mario Cristiani, Lorenzo Fiaschi, and Maurizio Rigillo of Galleria Continua emphasize the need for large-scale political intervention, including tax suspension, flexible credit, and direct state salary guarantees to prevent layoffs and closures. They note that remote sales are not replacing in-person interactions. Marco Poggiali of Galleria Poggiali highlights the undervaluation of galleries in Italy and the importance of web and social media, though he believes direct contact with collectors remains essential. Massimo Minini of Galleria Minini expresses deep concern, predicting that contemporary art will be viewed more critically and compared to historical art, leading to price adjustments and a difficult rebalancing. Alfonso Artiaco of Galleria Alfonso Artiaco reports that his gallery participated in Art Basel Hong Kong's Online Viewing Rooms with good results, and he hopes for a return to normalcy. Paola Capata of Monitor stresses the need for recognition of galleries' cultural and commercial role, and she launched an online viewing room on March 31 featuring Ian Tweedy. Jose Graci of Mazzoleni Art notes a physical block but a creative surge, with galleries using social media and online viewing rooms, though planning remains difficult. The article underscores the reliance on human contact and the uncertainty of the market's future.