‘The arts make us truly alive’

Richie Lerma, Salcedo Auctions

I think that the approaches being taken by dealers of fine art across the world are converging. The online art world is slowly but certainly becoming the norm in these unprecedented times. It is the way in which an institution such as Salcedo Auctions—along with its subsidiaries Gavel&Block and Salcedo Private View— adapts the virtual viewing room and shapes this new venue as its own, which ultimately differentiates us.

I have always believed that the arts fulfill society’s most essential role. Food, clothing, and shelter allow us to survive as a species, but it is the arts that make us truly alive and make us human. As the industry pioneer, I know that many are looking to Salcedo Auctions for guidance and inspiration as we navigate this new reality we all find ourselves

in. This year, Salcedo and its subsidiaries commemorate a decade of redefining legacy and giving back through its auctions and exhibitions, recognizing the unique ability of art to gather people together to support others. We take pride in the fact that charity has been in our DNA from the very beginning, and that it presents a framework in which the business of luxury can continue to have an important role in society.

‘Apart yet together’ resonates in these unprecedented times. I would strongly encourage artists to understand their unique role as catalysts for transformation and rejuvenation as we all come together to build and strengthen the notion of an arts community as #WeBidasOne and rally around the idea of #BiddingStrong for our country.