Thaddaeus Ropac opens Milan gallery, discusses art market slowdown

Galleria Thaddaeus Ropac will open a new space in Milan's Palazzo Belgioioso, directed by Elena Bonanno di Linguaglossa. In an interview with Artribune, Ropac discusses the current art market slowdown, noting that sales are not as dynamic as two years ago but expressing cautious optimism. He observes that the art world has shifted from an ivory tower to the center of life over 40 years, becoming more open and diverse. Ropac comments on the fascination with auction houses among young people, recalling a Harvard lecture where students wanted to learn how to become the next Jeff Koons. He reflects on his own start as a failed artist inspired by Joseph Beuys, and notes that artists now expect faster career success. Regarding mid-size galleries, Ropac acknowledges their struggles but believes the market will recover within a couple of years. He states that prices are not being lowered, but transactions are more calibrated. On the Milan opening, Ropac says he chose Milan over other Italian cities for its postwar art history (Lucio Fontana, Arte Povera) and its current vibrancy, not primarily for tax incentives. The inaugural exhibition will feature artists new to the Milanese context. Ropac is learning Italian and hopes to visit La Scala.