Boom. Crazy Money, Mega Deals and the Rise of Modern Art

The modern art market is a special world, developing by its own laws, and at the same time an uncontrollable flow, the waters of which bring experienced gold seekers fabulous fortunes. Michael Shnayerson, a contributor to Vanity Fair, is interested... in the hidden mechanisms of this market, its participants, and the history from the 1940s to the present day — that is, the history of its incredible growth and transformation into an industry. The phenomenon of 57th Street in New York, the flourishing of art galleries in Soho and Chelsea, the art fair frenzy of the 21st century, the most significant events in the art world in recent decades... And of course, art dealers — the trendsetters who support emerging artists and guide them to success. Through examples drawn from personal conversations with leading dealers and gallery owners, the author proves that behind the scenes of the modern art world, in conditions of fierce competition, there is room for honest partnerships and betrayal, pragmatism and philanthropy, painstaking work and adventurism.