Phillips dePury & Company

I’ve never been to an art auction before, so I figured, I should really come to an art auction. What else does one have to do in one’s spare time?
My first stop was the last hour of the viewing for Moss: Dialogues Between Art and Design, the auction would take place the next morning. I was pleasantly hopeful and validated that the experience felt very much like visiting a gallery. The time frame for the viewing was just a few days. Except, here you know the individuals lurking around may actually buy something, or anticipate on buying something at the actual auction. There is also a big glossy catalogue, but frankly, who needs to see a photo when you have access to the real thing?
I wonder how many of those lurking individuals are direct buyers, collectors, and those that were sent by buyers and collectors. I was happy to see other folks snapping photos of the paintings, furniture, sculptures, chandeliers, and whatnot. They did not look like tourists, at least most of them. If anything they looked more like me, like someone who was just curious. Curious enough to snap some photos. Taking pictures is what I like to do.
I really liked that it was a very casual atmosphere and I didn’t feel awkward or out of place at all. The girl at the front desk was very friendly and smiley and welcoming when I told her that I’ve never been at an art auction before, is it free to the public? Sure, she said, come in and enjoy!
Next stop would be the actual auction! Very exciting!