ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Lia Rumma on Art Market Strategies During Lockdown

opinion-review · 2026-04-27

In an interview with Artribune, gallerist Lia Rumma discusses how her gallery is navigating the COVID-19 crisis. She emphasizes uncertainty and the need for rethinking contemporary values. Remote sales channels were activated before lockdown, and the gallery is sharing Luca Monterastelli's Naples exhibition online. From May 5 to 31, William Kentridge's video "Waiting for the Sibyl" is available for free on the gallery's website, alongside a preview of his upcoming Milan show. Rumma views viewing rooms as a temporary compromise but insists they cannot replace physical fairs, citing the irreplaceable direct experience of artworks. She calls for a collective reflection on economic, health, social, and cultural foundations before planning the future of the art system.

Key facts

  • Lia Rumma Gallery activated remote sales channels before lockdown.
  • The gallery shared images of Luca Monterastelli's exhibition in Naples, which closed early due to the health emergency.
  • From May 5 to 31, 2020, William Kentridge's video 'Waiting for the Sibyl' is available for free on the gallery's website.
  • A preview of Kentridge's upcoming exhibition at the Milan gallery is also online.
  • Rumma believes viewing rooms are a good compromise but cannot replace physical art fairs.
  • She stresses the need to reflect on fundamental values before planning the future.
  • The gallery is preparing for a gradual and safe reopening.
  • The interview was conducted by Santa Nastro, vice director of Artribune.

Entities

Artists

  • Lia Rumma
  • Luca Monterastelli
  • William Kentridge
  • Marzia Migliora
  • Gian Maria Tosatti
  • Michelangelo

Institutions

  • Lia Rumma Gallery
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Naples
  • Italy
  • Milan

Sources