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| | | | | Crypto tycoons help drive global art market to record levels in 2021 | | by Harriet Sherwood Arts and culture correspondent Jan 2, 2022 | | Newly wealthy and pent-up demand from Covid-hit 2020 among reasons as sales of sought-after works boom The global art market performed at record levels in 2021, with billions of dollars being paid for works by impressionist, postwar and contemporary artists, and much of it bought by people whose wealth comes from cryptocurrencies or other technologies. More than $2.6bn (£2bn) of art was sold in two weeks by leading auction houses in New York in November. Four works by Vincent van Gogh sold for $161m, including $71.4m paid for Wooden Huts Among Olive Trees and Cypress Trees. Continue reading... | | | | | Phenotypes by Paulo Scott review – artfully plotted tale of race, privilege and guilt | | by Lucy Popescu Jan 2, 2022 | | An illuminating examination of racial classification in a skilfully constructed story of two brothers divided by the colour of their skin According to Brazil’s 2010 census, 43% of citizens identify as mixed-race, while 30% of those who consider themselves white have black ancestors. Brazil has always wrestled with issues surrounding colourism and racial classification. Even affirmative action policies – such as race-based quotas at universities – have proved contentious. Paulo Scott explores these tensions in his latest novel, seamlessly translated by Daniel Hahn. Lourenço and Federico are from the same Porto Alegre family – their father is black, their mother white. Lourenço is dark-skinned, while Federico’s pale skin means he passes for white. Uncomfortable with the privilege this brings him, Federico works with disadvantaged black youth and dedicates his life to fighting racism. But guilt taints his close relationships and fuels his quick temper. Eventually he moves away, while his brother, a basketball coach, remains a popular figure in their neighbourhood. Phenotypes by Paulo Scott (translated by Daniel Hahn) is published by And Other Stories (£10). To support the Guardian and Observer order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply Continue reading... | | | | | |
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