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Art Quote by Michael Kimmelman

“Under ordinary circumstances, bad art naturally gets sorted out and disappears. That is how history works when it is left alone to do its job.” quote by Michael Kimmelman
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“Under ordinary circumstances, bad art naturally gets sorted out and disappears. That is how history works when it is left alone to do its job.”

Michael Kimmelman

About This Quote

Source Essay: Art and the Market, 2010

In a free market, inferior art is naturally eliminated over time, allowing quality to prevail without intervention.

In simple terms: Bad art fades when left to market forces.

Key Takeaway

Trust natural selection in art markets.

Themes

art market dynamics quality selection

Mood

reflective critical

Type

evaluative philosophical

When to use this quote

  • curating exhibitions
  • investing in art
  • educating audiences

Key Concepts

economics of art cultural evolution valuation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should we intervene to preserve avant‑garde art?
  • What role should institutions play in art selection?
A Different Perspective

Market forces can suppress innovative but unconventional work.

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