Local art galleries face shifts due to economy By Lydia Kacala
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rt galleries across Northeast Ohio are being impacted differently by the uncertainty laced throughout the economy, with some seeing declining sales and others reporting that they haven’t seen any changes just yet. According to online art marketplace, Artsy.net, arts professionals and lawyers seem to be in agreement that artworks might be exempt from tariffs, but confusion on the issue still lingers. The confusion comes from a fact sheet published by the White House on April 2 that claims articles listed under 50 USC 1702, which includes artworks, photographs and posters, “will not be subject to reciprocal tariffs,” Artsy reported. To learn more about how local galleries are being impacted by tariffs and other changes in the economy, Canvas spoke with five galleries scattered throughout Northeast Ohio. CONTESSA GALLERY
Contessa Tscherne, founder and co-owner of the collector-oriented Contessa Gallery in Woodmere, says the economy is a factor in the operations of her gallery, which also has locations in Southamption, N.Y. and Palm Beach, Fla., but it’s not a driving force. “I believe that the evolution of the art market is shaped by its ability to respond to the global narrative,” Tscherne Tscherne, a Cleveland resident, says. “I see a remarkable shift with female artists gaining recognition and influence. This isn’t just a passing trend; it reflects a true desire for diversity and representation in the creative world. As these talented women earn acclaim and their work appreciates in value, they challenge the traditional dynamics of the market, that has historically favored male artists. “This change encourages collectors to diversify their portfolios, looking for pieces by women artists that offer not just visual pleasure but also real investment potential. In addition, the growing prominence of female artists aligns with broader societal movements, advocating for gender equality and representation. Art has a uniqueness of reflecting and shaping culture, and this growing recognition serves as a commentary on important contemporary issues, attracting collectors who appreciate art that resonates with relevance and
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meaning.” Tschernee finds that her collectors approach the art world in times of economic uncertainty as though its an “investment vehicle,” she says. “In today’s complicated financial landscape, art has become a powerful alternative investment,” she says. “Unlike traditional stocks, which can be unpredictable, art offers a tangible asset that has consistently appreciated over time. By investing in the right pieces, collectors not only have the potential for greater returns, but also support the artist and movements they’re passionate about. It’s a win-win, both financially rewarding and culturally enriching.” While shifting toward more hard assets, collectors are looking for artists with proven track records, she says. “Collectors are increasingly attracted to blue-chip artists with proven track records, especially in a market that often feels unpredictable,” Tscherne says. “Investing in artwork from these established artists provides a reassuring sense of stability. These pieces aren’t just decorations on the wall; they represent a legacy and a value that appreciates over time. I strive to curate collections that not only resonate emotionally, but also set a gold standard in the industry.” KOEHN SCULPTORS’ SANCTUARY ON GREEN Since Koehn Sculptors’ Sanctuary on South Green Road in South Euclid doesn’t open again until the fall, the true impacts of the economy won’t be seen for a couple of months for Victoria Koehn, who co-owns the gallery with her husband, Norbert Koehn, she says. However, she has some items stocked that she didn’t pay tariffs on. “I bought a lot of items pre-tariff, Norbert Koehn so I’m not paying tariffs on a lot of the many tariffs,” Koehn, a South Euclid resident, says. “I have a lot of carry-over, so there’s no tariff on my current inventory. And, I’m not going to know how people are spending until the fall.” Koehn isn’t facing problems with sourcing items for her gallery, which include sculptures from the studio and items from around the world, but they are becoming more expensive, she says. “Everything’s available,” she says. “Prices have gone up.
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