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Customer Quote by Robert Hughes

“Most of the time they buy what other people buy. They move in great schools, like bluefish, all identical. There is safety in numbers. If one wants Schnabel, they all want Schnabel, if one buys a Keith Haring, two hundred Keith Harings will be sold.” quote by Robert Hughes
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““Most of the time they buy what other people buy. They move in great schools, like bluefish, all identical. There is safety in numbers. If one wants Schnabel, they all want Schnabel, if one buys a Keith Haring, two hundred Keith Harings will be sold.””

Robert Hughes

About This Quote

People tend to follow collective trends in art purchasing, mimicking peers and gravitating toward popular, recognizable works rather than seeking unique pieces.

In simple terms: Conformity drives art market choices.

Key Takeaway

Trend-following dominates buying behavior.

Themes

conformity social proof market dynamics cultural homogeneity collective taste

Mood

observational critical sociological

Type

analytical observational

When to use this quote

  • gallery acquisitions
  • corporate art collections
  • online art platforms
  • art fairs
  • investment decisions

Key Concepts

trend influence peer pressure brand recognition mass appeal

Practical Applications

  • predicting sales spikes
  • curating diverse exhibitions

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does herd behavior affect artistic innovation?
  • What mechanisms could encourage individual taste?
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