An interesting article that is buried a bit in the NYT on two emerging markets for arts trading: a new development in Paris and another in Singapore.

These two cities are actively trying to create an ideal market (replete with high security storage facilities, private viewing rooms, and tax-free benefits) for the sale of myriad forms of collectibles - art, cars, jewelry, etc.

On top of that, they are both being marketed on some level as urban renewal projects.

Although I am supportive (to a degree) of creating hubs for the circulation of art works throughout the world - I worry that these projects are garnering too much “urban renewal” buzz for what they may actually do to impact the cultural fabric of their respective cities.

To me it would seem that they are areas of the city directed towards a very specific and wealthy group of international visitors - and less towards the general population of the city. However, I suppose it could be argued that, although not readily accessible to the entire population, that the activation of previously unused urban space does contribute to an overall more “lively” city.

I’m rambling - but I think you get my point.

I am excited to see what these areas of both cities look like - I’ll try to track down some renderings.