From Simon de Pury’s Star Turn on ‘Emily in Paris’ to Hunter Biden’s Gallery Show: The Best and Worst of the Art World This Week

Catch up on this week's news, fast.

Simon de Pury and Lily Collins. Courtesy Simon de Pury.

BEST?

Simon de Pury in Paris – The real life auctioneer told Artnet News all about his adventures as an extra on the Netflix show Emily in Paris.

Sold to the Highest Bidder – Even though a financial crisis has impacted the art market, millions of dollars still exchanged hands during the 2020 auction cycle.

Sotheby’s to Sell Artist Trove – The collection of the late artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude will hit the auction block in February, featuring almost 400 lots.

Jeffrey Deitch Dishes – The illustrious art dealer and businessman joins the Art Angle podcast for a frank conversation about his career and future plans.

France Passes Repatriation Bill – A bill to return looted artifacts to Benin and Senegal passed in the French government, despite last minute attempts to derail it.

Let’s Gogh – Three different technology companies are all vying to bring Van Gogh-themed immersive installations to major cities.

Perrotin Plans New Business Model – The French gallery is opening a secondary-market business to offer an alternative to the big auction houses.

WORST?

Americans for the Arts Accused of Toxicity – President of the organization Robert Lynch has taken a leave of absence following allegations of a negative work environment.

Hunter Biden Signs with Soho Gallery – The son of president-elect Joe Biden turned to painting as a form of therapy, and now he’s reportedly planning a solo show at a New York gallery.

Artist Accuses TV Show of Copying His Work – Artist Jamie McCartney was contacted to make artwork for the hit show Fleabag, but the show never followed up and a very similar artwork appeared in its season finale.

Billboard of George Floyd Gets Cancelled – A mural depicting George Floyd’s death was pulled from a billboard that was set to be displayed in Minneapolis.

Double Trouble – One of the thieves who enacted the brazen Green Vault heist has been apprehended, but his twin brother is still on the lam.

Phillips Can Cancel Contract – A judge ruled that due to the lockdowns, the auction house did not have to maintain an agreement with the Nahmad family.


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