A recent lawsuit against the defunct Marciano Art Foundation in Los Angeles and governmental actions to preserve historic artworks are drawing attention to the intersection of legal, cultural, and historical issues in the art world. This year, developments in museum operations, export restrictions, and notable artistic achievements have painted a complex picture of the art industry’s challenges and triumphs.

A former employee of the Marciano Art Foundation has filed a lawsuit alleging unlawful termination practices. The private museum, which abruptly closed in 2019, laid off 70 staff members without prior notice, violating California labor laws. The case sheds light on the precarious nature of employment within privately funded cultural institutions, sparking wider conversations about workers' rights in the art sector.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the British government is attempting to block the export of a Thomas Gainsborough painting sold at Sotheby’s earlier this year. The move reflects efforts to encourage domestic museums to acquire significant cultural heritage. Similarly, in France, the government has intervened to prevent the export of a Cimabue painting, which broke records in October as the most expensive medieval artwork ever sold at auction. French authorities now have 30 months to raise the necessary funds to secure the piece, emphasizing their commitment to cultural preservation.

Amid these legal and bureaucratic challenges, 2024 has also been a year of artistic retrospection and critical exploration. Hildur Guðnadóttir’s live performance of her Emmy-winning score from Chornobyl captivated audiences, while Kevin Beasley’s curated sound series at the Kitchen offered innovative auditory experiences. These events underline the evolving role of sound and performance in contemporary art.

This year has also seen historically significant developments. For example, Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, still recovering from the devastating 2019 fire, will not host Christmas mass for the first time in over two centuries. This somber milestone highlights the ongoing restoration efforts to preserve one of France’s most iconic landmarks.

Art dealer Jan Six is preparing a monumental five-volume study on Rembrandt in the Netherlands, promising new insights into the master’s oeuvre. This ambitious project underscores the enduring fascination with art history and the quest to uncover forgotten details of creative legacies.

Critics have added their voices to the year’s narrative. Françoise Gilot’s memoir, offering an unflinching look at her tumultuous relationship with Pablo Picasso, received praise for its candid storytelling. Meanwhile, Richard Brody reflected on the mysterious artistry of early animated films. Adam Gopnik celebrated the work of New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast, whose humorous depictions of neurotic characters have carved a distinctive niche in the art world.

As these stories unfold, they remind us of the multifaceted nature of art—its ability to inspire, provoke, and reflect society’s evolving values. From legal battles to preservation efforts, the global art scene continues to grapple with the complexities of its role in history, culture, and commerce.

Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com