My Word

This newsletter reflects our ongoing effort to clarify several persistent misconceptions surrounding increasingly complex issues—many of which, at the moment, happen to center on Nigeria.

Take something as simple as the distinction between brass and bronze. Why does it matter, and why has it become so contentious? Repatriation, once assumed to be a straightforward moral imperative, has proven far more complicated as objects return to Nigeria amid an evolving and often unpredictable museum landscape. Frustration is understandable. Many feel caught in a political environment that shifts constantly, leaving them uncertain about who is making decisions and why.

But the larger challenge extends well beyond Nigeria. Nigeria is simply one example of the far more intricate cultural‑property questions that museums, collectors, governments, and the art market will face in the years ahead. Doing what seems right today offers no guarantee that it will still be seen as right twenty years from now. Once politics or religion enters the conversation, even the most seemingly clear cultural issues can become extraordinarily complex.

Meanwhile, Mark and I are wrapping up a major case that has demanded a significant amount of our time. As that concludes, we’ll be able to refocus on the ArtTrak website, our expanding social‑media presence, and new content for the ArtTrak YouTube channel.

Our appraisal, authentication, and research services remain extremely active. If you need assistance, please reach out through ArtTrak Appraisals.

There are more surprises ahead. As always, we appreciate your interest, your comments, and your continued support.

JB