While I’m sorry that a significant number of Suite Home Chicago artists failed to realize their expectations in the auction cycle administrated by the folks at Public Art, the Chicago Artists’ Coalition’s advice to boycott auctions (Culture Club, 11/23/01) seems misguided at best. It’s true that art is often auctioned for far less than it might bring in a commercial gallery. On occasion, it is auctioned for far more than its listed retail value. At a recent Hyde Park Art Center auction, we were saddened when beautiful pieces by celebrated artists went for low minimum bids, and delighted when the work of a relative unknown was the subject of an intense bidding war. In both instances we, and the artists, accepted the fact that you can’t control the outcome of an auction. The artists donated their work to us. It was a gift, and we are grateful for it. We could not provide the exhibition opportunities we do without their support.
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Exhibitions Coordinator
