While a large segment of the art world has obsessed over a tiny number of stars and their prices, an aesthetic shift has been occurring. It's not a movement - movements are more sure of themselves. It's a change of mood or expectation, a desire for art to be more than showy effects, big numbers, and gamesmanship.
The art world has been shifting away from a focus on a select few high-profile artists and their prices, towards a desire for art that is more meaningful and impactful.
The quote suggests that the art world has been prioritizing spectacle and financial gain over artistic merit, and that this shift is a response to a growing desire for art that is more substantial and thought-provoking.
The quote does not provide specific historical context, but it can be seen as a commentary on the commercialization of the art world and the rise of social media's influence on the art market.
Jerry Saltz is an American art critic and Pulitzer Prize winner, known for his insightful and accessible writing on contemporary art.
The quote's message can be applied to various aspects of life, such as prioritizing substance over superficiality in one's personal and professional pursuits.
The quote does not generate significant controversy or criticism, as it is a thought-provoking commentary on the art world rather than a provocative statement.