The art world likes to talk about “movements”, Cubism, Surrealism, Impressionism, but right now, there’s a less glamorous movement sweeping through: redundancy. Galleries, auction houses, museums, and publications are quietly trimming teams, and many talented people are finding themselves unexpectedly free on a Tuesday morning.
It’s not you. It’s the economy. And the funding cuts. And the sponsors who just decided NFTs weren’t the future after all. But if your name has just been added to the latest “restructuring” spreadsheet, here’s how to navigate it with grace and creativity.
1. Take the Exit Interview, But Not Personally
Remember: layoffs are usually about budgets, not talent. You’re not suddenly less brilliant than you were yesterday.
2. Make Your Own Press Release
You’ve spent your career telling artists’ stories. Now, tell your own. Update your LinkedIn with a confident note about “seeking new opportunities” (yes, you can make it sound glamorous), send a friendly email to your network, and don’t be afraid to post on social media accounts that you’re available for freelance, consulting, or permanent roles.
3. Explore the Portfolio Life
The freelance gig economy can be your friend while you are on the permanent job hunt. Curation-as-a-service, writing exhibition texts, advising collectors, or even running pop-up projects can fill the gap, and maybe even become your next career chapter.
4. Keep Your Toe in the Art Pool
Don’t disappear. Keep attending openings (yes, even the ones with bad wine), talk to people, and volunteer for a panel or workshop. Being visible is your ticket back in.
5. Remember, Even Picasso Had a Blue Period
This could be your reset. The chance to pivot, upskill, or finally start that project you’ve been putting off for years. In art history, a “period” always leads to a new style.
If you’ve been made redundant recently, you’re not alone; this is a moment many in the industry are facing. But the art world is cyclical. Your next role, project, or collaboration might be closer than you think. And until then, you can always rebrand it as your “sabbatical for creative research”.
