Ariel Meyerowitz — Navigating the Art World (EP. 292)
Timestamps are as accurate as they can be but may be slightly off. We encourage you to listen to the full context.
Podcast Summary
In this compelling episode, professional art dealer Ariel Meyerowitz shares her expertise on navigating the art world, from developing your eye to making meaningful purchases. (22:00) The conversation explores why art collecting can feel daunting for newcomers and provides practical guidance for getting started. Ariel emphasizes that the foundation of successful collecting lies in buying what you love rather than focusing on investment potential. (04:30) Throughout the discussion, she breaks down the different art market channels - galleries, auctions, art fairs, and private sales - while addressing the psychological barriers that prevent people from engaging with art.
• Main Theme: Overcoming intimidation in the art world by focusing on personal connection and education rather than market dynamics
Speakers
Ariel Meyerowitz
Ariel is a professional art dealer and advisor based in Metropolitan New York who works with private clients and companies to acquire and develop contemporary art collections. She comes from an artistic family - her father is a renowned street photographer and her late mother was a ceramicist and painter. Having grown up surrounded by artists and spending countless hours in studios, galleries, and museums, Ariel brings over 34 years of experience in the art field, with 20 years specifically as an art advisor.
Jim O'Shaughnessy
Host of Infinite Loops podcast and successful investor who has been collecting art with his wife Missy for over 25 years. Jim approaches art collecting from both an analytical investor's perspective and as someone who genuinely loves art, making him an ideal interviewer to explore both the emotional and market aspects of the art world.
Key Takeaways
Start by Buying What You Love, Not What You Think Will Appreciate
Ariel emphasizes that new collectors should resist the temptation to approach art as an investment vehicle from the beginning. (04:31) She firmly states that you "can't put on your investment hat right from the beginning" and must instead buy something that will give you "immense pleasure out of looking at every single day." This approach prevents the anxiety and second-guessing that comes from market-focused thinking and ensures you'll be satisfied with your purchase regardless of its future value. The key is developing a personal relationship with the work that transcends monetary considerations.
Spend Extended Time with Art to Overcome Initial Dismissal
When encountering art that doesn't immediately appeal to you, Ariel recommends forcing yourself to stay with the exhibition and really study the work. (08:08) She explains that quick dismissal often stems from "a lack of understanding or a fear of not understanding." By spending more time examining pieces that challenge you, reading about the artist's intentions, and allowing your perspective to evolve, you can discover whether the work has merit for you personally. This practice builds confidence and expands your aesthetic appreciation over time.
View Gallery Visits as Educational, Not Transactional Experiences
Many newcomers feel intimidated by galleries because they assume they're obligated to purchase something. (12:50) Ariel clarifies that galleries are free for everyone and visitors are never obligated to buy anything. She encourages people to ask questions, engage with gallery staff, and view these visits as learning opportunities. The perceived snobbery that once characterized gallery culture has largely disappeared post-COVID, with staff now being more welcoming and helpful to all visitors regardless of their purchasing intentions.
Create Visual Rest Spaces in Your Environment
Ariel advocates for leaving some walls blank when displaying art, comparing empty wall space to "a comma in a sentence." (62:42) She explains that constant visual stimulation prevents your brain from properly processing and appreciating the art you do have. In our overstimulated world, these visual rest spaces allow your eyes to reset, making you more receptive to the emotional and intellectual impact of the artwork you've chosen to display. This principle applies whether you own one piece or dozens.
Build Relationships with Trusted Art Advisors for Long-term Success
Working with a knowledgeable art advisor creates a partnership that goes beyond simple transactions. (81:08) Ariel describes her role as deeply collaborative, involving understanding clients' personalities, living spaces, and emotional needs. A good advisor will challenge your quick dismissals, help you avoid rash decisions, and guide you toward pieces that will provide long-term satisfaction. This relationship becomes particularly valuable for navigating the fast-paced environment of art fairs or when considering significant purchases.
Statistics & Facts
- A recent London psychiatry study found that looking at art in person reduces stress by 22% and measurably lowers cortisol levels. (92:56) The study monitored 50 people viewing five major paintings in a museum versus viewing the same works on paper, demonstrating the physiological benefits of experiencing art firsthand.
- New York City has nearly 3,000 venues to see art, according to pre-COVID estimates. (11:04) This vast number contributes to why newcomers can feel overwhelmed when trying to enter the art world, as the sheer volume of options creates decision paralysis.
- At major art fairs, galleries often receive 220-250 participating galleries from around the world, with many works selling before the fair even opens. (40:06) Galleries now send out PDFs of their offerings 2-4 weeks in advance, and successful galleries often arrive with most pieces already sold or reserved.
