Meeting Art president Pablo Carrara on auction house resilience during pandemic

Pablo Carrara, president of Meeting Art, discusses how the auction house adapted to the COVID-19 lockdown. Since 1998, Meeting Art has conducted online auctions, so the transition was smooth. Clients could view catalogs, bid online, and watch live streams. The company maintained contact via newsletters, website, and social media. Upon reopening on May 18, employees will have PPE, and the large spaces at Palazzo Meeting Art in Vercelli allow social distancing. First-quarter revenue rose 16% year-on-year, but the lockdown absorbed that gain. To compensate, Meeting Art extended its auction calendar through July. Long-term goals include strengthening the national market and expanding internationally. Carrara sees no weaknesses in online auctions, as all lots come with appraisals, certificates, and condition reports. However, physical previews remain important, with lots displayed two weeks before each sale. Collectors have been active, subscribing to catalogs (50% of proceeds donated to Protezione Civile) and submitting works for valuation. Many bids have come in for the May 23 modern and contemporary art auction. Upcoming sales include jewelry, antiques, watches, and online-only auctions. The private sales department will also receive continued investment.