Big Bucks: The Explosion of the Art Market in the 21st Century Paperback – June 28, 2014

I really enjoyed this book with its numerous anecdotes about the various aspects of the industry. How money plays such a role in this market, and the interweaving agendas, add a layer of reality to what is otherwise, a fairly opaque industry. For anyone trying to earn a living in the arts, this is a must read, though the reader may find the games played in the industry to be quite depressing. It's a page-turner, and I completed the whole book on a round trip overseas flight, eager to read the next inside scoop of juicy details on the high end part of the market. Georgina Adams has done a lot of research and interviews for this book, and has obviously attended a lot of functions and fairs, all of which lifts this insider guide above the sea of dry and dissertation-like analytical studies about the art market. Bravo for pulling the curtain back to reveal the manipulations and machinations in the industry. Artists...beware! There are lions, tigers and bears out there.

It’s a great book about revealing the dark side of the contemporary art market. With the rising of NFT/crypto art, I’m wondering whether the mission of art democratisation can be achieved this time. But after observing the NFT market for a while. Nothing is likely to change, and it’s just another gathering for big bucks on the chain.

A riveting book. Fabulously written. Thoroughly researched.I have worked at Sotheby's, the Smithsonian, and in contemporary art galleries - so I know something of how the art world works. But its been a while since I was an insider and this was like an exciting 'welcome home.' Buying and selling is about theatre and personality, but it is also about shockingly big bucks. A flick of a paddle can be a status symbol, an investment, or an expensive mistake. Enjoy.

great analysis with author's insight. recommended.

Good on concrete examples.

interesting read, but if you have also read "the 12 million stuffed shark" you would be less impressive. similar structure and stories.

very informative. a great read. RMR

not an interesting read

A very interesting read that has the exact combination of facts, figures and data sprinkled with behind the scenes stories. A breath of fresh air in a very guarded and opaque community of artists, dealers, institutions and collectors, that opens a door for all of us who want to understand better how the art world functions.

Excellent read, easy, informative and fun.

Most informative book on the Contemporary art market that I have read. Easy to understand the different 'players' in the Art world. Brilliant!

A fascinating and entertaining romp through the art market.Well written and easy to read.

recommend to anyone interested in a thoroughly research analysts of the art market by one of its best experts in the world.