The Secrets Behind the Small Museums That Start Big Trends

This article was first published by Artnet.

With big budgets and international prestige, the most famous art museums wield a lot of power, so it’s disappointing when their exhibition programs are known less for new discoveries than deja vu. All too often, it feels like the same blockbuster names are being copied and pasted across the world. For the institution, these established artists are safe bets that will reliably bring footfall and make the donors whose names adorn the wall look very important. For the lucky few artists who make it into this top-tier, their reputation is cemented and their prices rocket.

But how do these artists get there? Perhaps more influential than the mega-museums are a number of lesser known but well-respected institutions that play an outsize role in establishing the dominant art trends for years to come. Even with smaller budgets or a regional focus, these museums have a knack for identifying emerging talent and the influence to elevate artists to mainstream recognition. Where they lead, the Tates and MoMAs of the world will eventually follow.