Thanks Clint for your insight. You are correct - galleries often have a collector tribe or clan. It is truly an equitable partnership.

My reason for pointing out the power to the artist is that so many of my artist friends put up with bad business practices for way too long - just so they can say they're represented by that gallery in that town.

It is hard work for both sides, and I know several gallery owners personally who do a great job at promoting their artists, selling and also working with honesty.