Random Thoughts

The main conclusion to be drawn from the two main sales (Christies/Sothebys) is that there is still a lot of money out there for important works by stellar artists—work that combines rarity, excellence, wall power and a fabulous provenance. With interest rates at near-record lows, stock markets in the shallows and property prices well below what they were two years ago, art is an attractive alternative asset class. For the best of the best—in short, a work such as Mrs Brody's “Nude, Green Leaves and Bust”—there seems to be little shortage of people with $100m to burn in a single night. On the other hand, works with some taint—the wrong period, wrong colour, wrong size, wrong estimate—have a much tougher time finding buyers. Why risk spending $1m on a work you might not be able to re-sell? Even in a rising market, finding buyers is no easy ride.

- Economist
www.economist.com

Spot on.

Global Business BBC

Peter Day's viewpoints on pedal power was interesting. I am a huge fan. I hope it's available worldwide.

Useful links:
www.worksman.com
http://bamboobikestudio.com

CVD-grown Diamond Update

A New York lab has identified a near-colorless CVD-grown diamond larger than a carat that was submitted for grading. Buyer beware.

Useful links:
www.apollodiamond.com
www.gia.edu

Antiques For Everyone

As part of the Antiques For Everyone's silver anniversary celebration in July 2010, the Birmingham Assay Office in the U.K. will be showing important pieces from its private silver collection at the NEC. Check it out. www.antiquesforeveryone.co.uk

Art Market Update

Souren Melikian's opinion piece in the New York Times about the state of the art maket (Impressionist/Modern works) was interesting. Many thanks.

Useful link:
www.christies.com

Gary Hamel Viewpoint

Gary Hamel's opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal about the near infinite number of ways in which companies annoy their customers was brilliant. Many thanks.

Useful links:
www.garyhamel.com
http://blogs.wsj.com/management

Modern Masters With Alastair Sooke

Thanks to Alastair Sooke. I enjoyed the show. The way Warhol's life and artwork has been investigated was brilliant.

Useful link:
www.bbc.co.uk/bbcone/modernmasters

No Dirty Gold Update

Gold mining has been linked to conflict and human rights violations, forest destruction, toxic pollution, and loss of lands and livelihoods. Take a look at the No Dirty Gold campaign and jewelry retailer statements.

Useful link:
www.nodirtygold.org