Navigating the Rudeness in the Art World: Understanding and Coping

The art world has long been known for its elitist and sometimes hostile attitudes. This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, why it exists, and how to navigate it to benefit from networking opportunities and collaborations.

The Elitist Nature of the Art World

Many individuals in the art world view themselves as elites, whether due to their deep personal and intellectual engagement with the arts or their involvement in the business side. These individuals often have a heightened sense of self-importance, which can manifest as rudeness or disinterest towards newcomers, who may seem eccentric or entitled to them.

This elitism is not exclusive to artists. It spans across various roles within the industry, including curators, collectors, and gallery owners. These individuals often value experience and track records, which can create a barrier for those just starting in the field.

Common Experiences of Rudeness

One can often hear stories of artists or participants at art events being brushed off or ignored by others simply because they are perceived as less experienced. For example, my friend attended a Master's graduation show opening. As a fellow student and artist, she was initially warmly received and engaged with by the invited artists. However, as soon as it became clear that she was a bachelor student, the conversation abruptly changed. The artists appeared disinterested, and the tone of the conversation shifted, leading to a rather abrupt and unsatisfactory interaction. This pattern is not unique to my friend's experience, but rather, a common occurrence in the art community, exacerbated by the fact that a significant portion of networking remains offline and reliant on events where influential people physically gather.

Causes and Consequenses of Rudeness

The rudeness can be attributed to a few factors. Firstly, some artists and professionals may be socially awkward due to their intense focus on their art and business. A lack of social skills or discomfort in social settings can inadvertently come across as arrogance or rudeness. Additionally, the self-centered nature of art creation and appreciation can make some artists less concerned with their own comfort at the expense of others, especially during networking events. However, it's important to note that the impact of this can vary by region and event. In Singapore, for example, the culture and expectations around networking are different, which can lead to a more inclusive atmosphere.

It's crucial to understand that rudeness in the art world can be a reflection of inflated expectations or unmet real-world norms. The idea that the art world should be a place of passionate, universal, modest, and inclusive encounters can sometimes clash with the reality of a cutthroat and status-conscious environment.

Coping Strategies and Recommendations

To navigate the often unspoken rules of the art world, it's essential to engage in self-reflection and continued education. Here are some strategies to help you deal with rudeness in the art world:

Build a Strong Network: Attend art events and participate in the community. Being knowledgeable about the art scene and having a strong network can help you make meaningful connections. Develop Social Skills: Improve your social skills through networking events, workshops, or classes. Being well-versed in how to interact with others can make a significant difference. Stay Humble and Respectful: Remember that everyone has a starting point, and showing respect and humility can help break down barriers. Be Prepared: Research the event, its participants, and the style of engagement before attending.

Conclusion

The art world's reputation for rudeness often stems from a combination of elitism, social awkwardness, and the need to conform to certain expectations. By understanding these dynamics and employing proactive strategies, newcomers can navigate the art world more effectively. Remember, the art world is diverse and nuanced, and not all interactions will be negative. By adopting a positive and inclusive mindset, you can build meaningful relationships and succeed in your artistic endeavors.