Do you feel heard? Actually, a better question I think is…are you speaking up? The last few weeks have had one central theme for me: the need for more transparent communication. There have been many conversations with art pros about their needs, expectations, and desires for consideration. The point we keep getting to is that the back-and-forth of these dialogues is not getting any more straightforward. Are people getting your point?
One of the critical reasons for the discussions has to do with capacity. In this week’s podcast, I talk about the broadening of this word’s context to include not only physical space but also the emotional bandwidth of staff. We have to create room for people to be human by being more transparent with planning, milestones, and where the goal lines are predicted to end up. People need to be able to regulate their own internal throttles, or it will be impossible to manage our own needs and expectations.
Take a look at the articles section to see how folks in and around our communities are finding their voices. Some are creating solutions for fraught situations, while others are creating cautionary tales. I think we will all be finding that the echoes from current movements will affect our processes and protocols for years to come. What can we do to learn from these scenarios?
Finally, I hope you will take a look at the resource section and connect with people who are working hard to be heard. From Museum Trade’s direct reaction to Christie’s swag debacle to Art List Bay Area’s grassroots initiatives, I think it is important that we connect with art pros working to help get the word out. Contribute your feedback to these groups, and connect with your peers. I hope you will reach out to Art Pro Net too, and know that I am listening.