Seven Days

Seven Days

Seven Days in the Art World is a joint account of the cultural aspect of art as seen through the

eyes of a sociologist who takes into account the use of ethnographic research methods. Given

that art is consumed through seeing or hearing, the book thus emphasizes the use of sight to

observe and interact with art. The book begins with an art auction house at Christie's in New

York City. The chapter offers an insight into factors that drive the activities in an art auction. It

also provides some reasons why both artists and collectors are forced to part with their pieces

through auctions. While some sell out of will and volition, others sell due to circumstances such

as debt where they need to raise as much money within the shortest time possible, and auctions

are the best places to sell fast and to the highest bidder. The art critic at the California Institute of

Arts is an occasion where students are called upon to defend their pieces based on the critique

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from their peers and the teachers. It is an introduction to the critical side of art that can either

make or break an artist's career based on the reviews and opinions of the art critics. The book

then proceeds to cover the fair in Basel, which is a gathering of relevant stakeholders of art from

all over the world. It is a gathering of artists and galleries where booths are provided to dealers to

showcase pieces in their collections. Through her observations and interactions with different

collectors, she provides information on the key concerns among the dealers where privacy is

essential in art. This explains why some collectors are reluctant about Thornton following them

in the art fair.

In the next chapter, Thornton shifts focus to the Turner prize in London, renowned for its

emphasis on conceptual art. The ideas into the artwork are essential, and these details are

considered during nomination and awards. Its approach to art raises controversy on the nature

and definition of art. The chapter highlights the sharp contrast between traditional and conceptual

art. The book then highlights activities at the Art Forum magazine, which is a leading publication

on contemporary art. As identified in the book, the magazine is a voice among art circles, and

any mention or contribution in the magazine is enough to bring acclaim to either an artist or a

critic. While its staff might not necessarily be art historians, their grasp on the literature and

critical analysis makes them perfect fit for the organization in maintaining its high-octane

standards and practices. The book then highlights the interaction with the Japanese artist Takashi

Murakami at his studio. He reveals the concept of studios is slowly being erased, and Murakami

adds that he has developed the habit of working anywhere at almost anytime and is not

necessarily confined by the studio. The final chapter draws attention to the Venice Biennale from

where Thornton defines art based on her observations from this exhibition in Venice. It functions

as an area where artists network based on the trends in the art industry where the pieces on

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display reflect on current forms of art. It provides an avenue to showcase contemporary visual art

based on current global trends in art.