Art Opening Or Art Party

On any given Thursday of the week, there are art openings in any of the art districts in the NYC boroughs. As a practicing artist, I often patron these openings as an extended continue education.

Recently I wonder how many people are there for art purpose. Like buyers, Dealers, etc. How any are there for the free drinks? In the Upper East Side galleries, they often roll out red carpets for openings. There are drinking’s pouring faster than the waterfalls. It is a little different in Chelsea district. Most Galleries will have an opening night, and then a reception evening.

Some of the Gallery openings or Gallery walk I went to in Philadelphia and Chicago, took on rather festive atmosphere, some even have live music. There is nothing wrong with it; after all it is a celebration to the artists amazing accomplishment. It should be celebrated. On the other hand, does all the drinking gets in the way of the appreciation of the art or enhances it.

I suppose having wine at these events is part of the art gallery culture, and it happens everywhere in the world. May be it is a good tradition. I am not ashamed to say that free wine gets my vote. What about you?

As for getting a little… you know. Been there done that too, unfortunately. After all drinking after work, with an empty stomach plus free wine or spirit, is a deadly combination. If it had never happens to you? I am very sorry, because you are either a boring person, you have no life or you are just lying.

Well, there is another art opening next week on a condo lobby. While the exhibit place is great, and opening seems to draw some upscale patrons, but it is not a gallery, there will be no expert there to showcase the art, except the artist himself. It is also the responsibility of the participating artist to provide refreshment for the opening party. It is an unconventional approach, Does it worth the cost?

The food at this opening seems to be always excellent, and the spirits were flowing non-stop for hours. I never miss any of the openings, because it is free, period. But, is it an art opening? Or is it just another party.

Quarter for your thought

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