Fist Bumps and Brisk Sales Rule at Virus-Averse N.Y. Art Show
- ‘No more kissing or shaking hands,’ says Sotheby’s Dennison
- Coronavirus fears led to cancellations, closures in art world
Financiers Tom Hill, Byron Wien and Tom Tuft strolled the aisles of the Art Show Wednesday night as Champagne flowed and scores of artworks sold.
But something was amiss at the fair that marks the unofficial opening of New York’s art season and doubles as a fundraiser for Henry Street Settlement. Financial markets have tumbled in recent days on growing concerns about the coronavirus. As guests arrived at the Park Avenue Armory, President Donald Trump was speaking on U.S. efforts to prepare for the epidemic after the first cases were found here.