ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

The Omni: A New Player in the Art Market System

opinion-review · 2026-04-23

The article introduces the concept of the 'Omni' as a new type of figure in the contemporary art world, emerging in the 21st century. The term 'Omni' is chosen for its resemblance to 'UFO' (OVNI in French), highlighting the elusive and mobile nature of these individuals, who frequently travel by plane. The piece, published in artpress in October 2008, discusses how these figures operate within the art system, particularly in relation to sales and market dynamics. The Omni is characterized as difficult to locate, reflecting the globalized and transient nature of the art market. The article is available as a PDF download.

Key facts

  • The article was published in artpress in October 2008.
  • The term 'Omni' is coined to describe a new type of figure in the art world.
  • Omni resembles the French acronym OVNI (UFO), suggesting elusiveness.
  • Omnis are described as 21st-century men who frequently travel by plane.
  • The article is titled 'Les ventes : Omni dans le système de l'art'.
  • The piece focuses on the role of Omnis in the art market system.
  • Omnis are characterized as difficult to locate.
  • The article is available as a downloadable PDF file.

Entities

Institutions

  • artpress

Sources