Mike Weiss Gallery Responds to Meghann Snow’s Account of Her Firing

by Art Fag City on November 25, 2009 · 210 comments Events

POST BY PADDY JOHNSON
art fag city, mike weiss
Sara Harari, assistant director, and Mike Weiss. Image via: Art and Living

Mike Weiss Gallery responds to former employee Meghann Snow! Weiss discusses a mix of concerns with regard to Snow’s dismissal ranging from competency and demeanor, to far less salient complaints such as failure to disclose her career as an artist.

I’ve posted Mike Weiss Gallery’s response below so readers will have a better sense of the company’s position, but reiterate my sentiment that it is far from satisfactory. Although she does not say so explicitly, Snow leaves the suggestion that being required to tolerate personal inspection may constitute quid pro quo harassment.

The question is, why didn’t gallery owner Mike Weiss address Meghann Snow’s account of her physical “inspection” prior to her firing? According to Snow, Weiss took her into a back room and told her “I own this gallery and I have the right to inspect you.” No, he doesn’t, and the gallery’s response in yesterday’s comment section of the blog does not address this issue at all.

Given the amount of attention this issue has received, Mike Weiss Gallery would like to respectfully respond to the blog post written by Meghann Snow. This all comes as a surprise to us being that we received an email from Ms. Snow in which she thanked us for our time and stated that she respected our decision.

When Ms. Snow interviewed for the position as Registrar she dressed the part as would be required of a high profile gallery and was enthusiastic about taking initiative for the position; she did after all get the job over a number of highly qualified and equally enthusiastic applicants. Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.

Understandably, being appropriately dressed is of course a consideration of a ground floor gallery in Chelsea where the employees are in view of the visitors and clients. However, Ms. Snow has failed to mention in her blog post that it was her timidity taking on the responsibilities of the position that requires an enormous amount of energy, self motivation and initiative, which ultimately led to her being asked not to come back.

Ms. Snow is an artist, a fact decidedly omitted in her interview, and if this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.

{ 210 comments }

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 5:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Scott February 19, 2014 at 10:01 am

This is being blown up way out of proportion. I am a business owner and often when I hold interviews, it’s necessary to see candidates quickly. With hundreds of applicants applying, it’s necessary to screen them quickly to find those that are qualified… In ten minutes you can determine a person’s confidence, attitude, professionalism and if it’s worth calling them back for another interview. Whether people want to admit it or not, a gallery survives on presenting a professional front office. Asking someone to re-think how they are dressing is not sexual harrassment, just like handing over a UPS or FedEx uniform is. This would hold true in any industry from the front desk of a hotel lobby or law firm. Also it’s almost impossible to truly determine an employee’s skills until they are in the job. I have had people that insisted they are proficient in quickbooks, but then click at the headings searching for simple functions like how to create an invoice. The same holds true for understanding terminology on a shipping bill or properly completing an email (which is a skill no different than letter writing). To me this is a simple case of the Gallery getting it wrong in hiring Ms. Snow in the first place and realizing she wasn’t the candidate they thought she was, and Ms. Snow getting upset that she was fired and seeking to get some form of revenge.

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 5:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 5:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 5:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 5:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 5:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Hrag November 25, 2009 at 1:50 pm

What a ridiculous claim: “this blog post has increased the traffic to her own website I suppose she finds justification in her efforts to tarnish the reputation of a respected gallery.”

I, for one, am glad you are staying on top of this story.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 5:58 pm

I wonder if Mr Weiss has his male employees go in the back to ‘critique’ their fashion sensibilities. Probably not. Too bad Ms Snow is not a judoka. This story would be exponentially better with an amateur MMA bent to it.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 5:58 pm

I wonder if Mr Weiss has his male employees go in the back to ‘critique’ their fashion sensibilities. Probably not. Too bad Ms Snow is not a judoka. This story would be exponentially better with an amateur MMA bent to it.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 5:58 pm

I wonder if Mr Weiss has his male employees go in the back to ‘critique’ their fashion sensibilities. Probably not. Too bad Ms Snow is not a judoka. This story would be exponentially better with an amateur MMA bent to it.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 5:58 pm

I wonder if Mr Weiss has his male employees go in the back to ‘critique’ their fashion sensibilities. Probably not. Too bad Ms Snow is not a judoka. This story would be exponentially better with an amateur MMA bent to it.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 5:58 pm

I wonder if Mr Weiss has his male employees go in the back to ‘critique’ their fashion sensibilities. Probably not. Too bad Ms Snow is not a judoka. This story would be exponentially better with an amateur MMA bent to it.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 1:58 pm

I wonder if Mr Weiss has his male employees go in the back to ‘critique’ their fashion sensibilities. Probably not. Too bad Ms Snow is not a judoka. This story would be exponentially better with an amateur MMA bent to it.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 6:00 pm

I forgot to add that while this story doesn’t include a grappling match in the back of the gallery, it does stink of some form sexual harassment.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 6:00 pm

I forgot to add that while this story doesn’t include a grappling match in the back of the gallery, it does stink of some form sexual harassment.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 6:00 pm

I forgot to add that while this story doesn’t include a grappling match in the back of the gallery, it does stink of some form sexual harassment.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 6:00 pm

I forgot to add that while this story doesn’t include a grappling match in the back of the gallery, it does stink of some form sexual harassment.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 6:00 pm

I forgot to add that while this story doesn’t include a grappling match in the back of the gallery, it does stink of some form sexual harassment.

Bob from Wyoming November 25, 2009 at 2:00 pm

I forgot to add that while this story doesn’t include a grappling match in the back of the gallery, it does stink of some form sexual harassment.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 6:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. nnAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.nnFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. nnAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 6:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. nnAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.nnFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. nnAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 6:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. nnAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.nnFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. nnAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 6:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. nnAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.nnFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. nnAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 6:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. nnAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.nnFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. nnAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 6:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. nnAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.nnFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. nnAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 2:29 pm

I’m sorry, Mike Weiss Gallery, your defense of your actions does not pass the fail test. Two days is a ridiculously inadequate amount of time to assess someone’s ‘attitude’ and competence. Every job requires training, particularly detail-oriented positions like a gallery registrar; the details vary from job to job, and it is unrealistic to expect a person to just jump in and get it right the first time. \n\nAlso, how do you simultaneously expect someone to project enthusiasm and at the same time learn anything? I know that when I am committing new procedures to memory, I’m generally pretty quiet.\n\nFurthermore, it is unprofessional and abusive to fire someone after two days without giving them any feedback, warning or a chance to improve. \n\nAll this is by the way, however. You did not even begin to address the completely inappropriate action of TAKING A NEW FEMALE EMPLOYEE INTO THE BACK ROOM AND ASKING HER TO DISROBE, which is blatant sexual harassment. You’re only responding to this issue at all because of the attention her Facebook post received. I’m glad that there is finally a public forum to air the abusive practices of people like Mike Weiss.

Wendy Cooper November 25, 2009 at 6:33 pm

The inspection process was the appalling part.

Wendy Cooper November 25, 2009 at 6:33 pm

The inspection process was the appalling part.

Wendy Cooper November 25, 2009 at 6:33 pm

The inspection process was the appalling part.

Wendy Cooper November 25, 2009 at 6:33 pm

The inspection process was the appalling part.

Wendy Cooper November 25, 2009 at 6:33 pm

The inspection process was the appalling part.

Wendy Cooper November 25, 2009 at 2:33 pm

The inspection process was the appalling part.

Aron Namenwirth November 25, 2009 at 6:45 pm

I always thought being an artist would be an asset for a gallery, and many artists make their living that way. I had an experience with Weiss many years ago in one of these huge groups shows that seldom really benefit the artist, but give the curator exposure. This show had a specific limitation, maybe everything had to be on a 2×2 foot stretcher. Mike Weiss was the new boy on the block. I was working on a performance piece with Matt Bua and Jesse Berkowitz called “Buff” It was a workout, we ran around a track and collaborated with various art world personalitiesnthe likes of Jack Tilton and Colin de land to name a few. Well we ran over to dumbo and put one of our handsomely silk screened Buff tee shirts,on the stretcher maybe it was ripe, maybe we didn’t run over there but it was the only piece out of hundreds that was rejected- so he has no taste either.

Aron Namenwirth November 25, 2009 at 6:45 pm

I always thought being an artist would be an asset for a gallery, and many artists make their living that way. I had an experience with Weiss many years ago in one of these huge groups shows that seldom really benefit the artist, but give the curator exposure. This show had a specific limitation, maybe everything had to be on a 2×2 foot stretcher. Mike Weiss was the new boy on the block. I was working on a performance piece with Matt Bua and Jesse Berkowitz called “Buff” It was a workout, we ran around a track and collaborated with various art world personalitiesnthe likes of Jack Tilton and Colin de land to name a few. Well we ran over to dumbo and put one of our handsomely silk screened Buff tee shirts,on the stretcher maybe it was ripe, maybe we didn’t run over there but it was the only piece out of hundreds that was rejected- so he has no taste either.

Aron Namenwirth November 25, 2009 at 6:45 pm

I always thought being an artist would be an asset for a gallery, and many artists make their living that way. I had an experience with Weiss many years ago in one of these huge groups shows that seldom really benefit the artist, but give the curator exposure. This show had a specific limitation, maybe everything had to be on a 2×2 foot stretcher. Mike Weiss was the new boy on the block. I was working on a performance piece with Matt Bua and Jesse Berkowitz called “Buff” It was a workout, we ran around a track and collaborated with various art world personalitiesnthe likes of Jack Tilton and Colin de land to name a few. Well we ran over to dumbo and put one of our handsomely silk screened Buff tee shirts,on the stretcher maybe it was ripe, maybe we didn’t run over there but it was the only piece out of hundreds that was rejected- so he has no taste either.

Aron Namenwirth November 25, 2009 at 2:45 pm

I always thought being an artist would be an asset for a gallery, and many artists make their living that way. I had an experience with Weiss many years ago in one of these huge groups shows that seldom really benefit the artist, but give the curator exposure. This show had a specific limitation, maybe everything had to be on a 2×2 foot stretcher. Mike Weiss was the new boy on the block. I was working on a performance piece with Matt Bua and Jesse Berkowitz called “Buff” It was a workout, we ran around a track and collaborated with various art world personalities\nthe likes of Jack Tilton and Colin de land to name a few. Well we ran over to dumbo and put one of our handsomely silk screened Buff tee shirts,on the stretcher maybe it was ripe, maybe we didn’t run over there but it was the only piece out of hundreds that was rejected- so he has no taste either.

encolere November 25, 2009 at 7:07 pm

If the gallery fired Snow for not being “bubbly” enough, then why was she inspected about her attire? The two have nothing to do with one another. Further, as a registrar, being hip and bubbly have little to do with the requirements of the position, which is to pack, ship, and insure artwork– not sell art or interact with the public in the gallery. Also, from the sound of it, there was nothing wrong with the outfit anyway. It is clear that Mike Weiss is a sleaze, as no one deserves to be treated the way Ms. Snow was on a first day at work. As for the comment, “…in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar” this is a slanderous and defamitory public statement, that will no doubt negatively affect this woman’s career. Clearly, the ones who lack professionalism in this situation is the Mike Weiss Gallery

encolere November 25, 2009 at 7:07 pm

If the gallery fired Snow for not being “bubbly” enough, then why was she inspected about her attire? The two have nothing to do with one another. Further, as a registrar, being hip and bubbly have little to do with the requirements of the position, which is to pack, ship, and insure artwork– not sell art or interact with the public in the gallery. Also, from the sound of it, there was nothing wrong with the outfit anyway. It is clear that Mike Weiss is a sleaze, as no one deserves to be treated the way Ms. Snow was on a first day at work. As for the comment, “…in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar” this is a slanderous and defamitory public statement, that will no doubt negatively affect this woman’s career. Clearly, the ones who lack professionalism in this situation is the Mike Weiss Gallery

encolere November 25, 2009 at 3:07 pm

If the gallery fired Snow for not being “bubbly” enough, then why was she inspected about her attire? The two have nothing to do with one another. Further, as a registrar, being hip and bubbly have little to do with the requirements of the position, which is to pack, ship, and insure artwork– not sell art or interact with the public in the gallery. Also, from the sound of it, there was nothing wrong with the outfit anyway. It is clear that Mike Weiss is a sleaze, as no one deserves to be treated the way Ms. Snow was on a first day at work. As for the comment, “…in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar” this is a slanderous and defamitory public statement, that will no doubt negatively affect this woman’s career. Clearly, the ones who lack professionalism in this situation is the Mike Weiss Gallery

Grrl77 November 25, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Thanks for posting this Paddy. I first heard about the issue via Jerry Saltz’s facebook. Its quite atrocious and the response of the gallery not only doesn’t fully address the relevance of “inspection” but also makes them seem inappropriate in their own judgement in hiring capable employees. Sadly the issue of harassment is alive in New York (I’ve experienced myself a few years back in the fashion industry) and I salute Miss Snow for not only bringing it to our attention but also taking on one of the “first floor” galleries in Chelsea!

Grrl77 November 25, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Thanks for posting this Paddy. I first heard about the issue via Jerry Saltz’s facebook. Its quite atrocious and the response of the gallery not only doesn’t fully address the relevance of “inspection” but also makes them seem inappropriate in their own judgement in hiring capable employees. Sadly the issue of harassment is alive in New York (I’ve experienced myself a few years back in the fashion industry) and I salute Miss Snow for not only bringing it to our attention but also taking on one of the “first floor” galleries in Chelsea!

Grrl77 November 25, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Thanks for posting this Paddy. I first heard about the issue via Jerry Saltz’s facebook. Its quite atrocious and the response of the gallery not only doesn’t fully address the relevance of “inspection” but also makes them seem inappropriate in their own judgement in hiring capable employees. Sadly the issue of harassment is alive in New York (I’ve experienced myself a few years back in the fashion industry) and I salute Miss Snow for not only bringing it to our attention but also taking on one of the “first floor” galleries in Chelsea!

Grrl77 November 25, 2009 at 7:48 pm

Thanks for posting this Paddy. I first heard about the issue via Jerry Saltz’s facebook. Its quite atrocious and the response of the gallery not only doesn’t fully address the relevance of “inspection” but also makes them seem inappropriate in their own judgement in hiring capable employees. Sadly the issue of harassment is alive in New York (I’ve experienced myself a few years back in the fashion industry) and I salute Miss Snow for not only bringing it to our attention but also taking on one of the “first floor” galleries in Chelsea!

Grrl77 November 25, 2009 at 3:48 pm

Thanks for posting this Paddy. I first heard about the issue via Jerry Saltz’s facebook. Its quite atrocious and the response of the gallery not only doesn’t fully address the relevance of “inspection” but also makes them seem inappropriate in their own judgement in hiring capable employees. Sadly the issue of harassment is alive in New York (I’ve experienced myself a few years back in the fashion industry) and I salute Miss Snow for not only bringing it to our attention but also taking on one of the “first floor” galleries in Chelsea!

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 7:49 pm

The more I think about this response, the more it offends me on numerous levels. They refer to Ms. Snow’s ‘blog post’ more than once, and suggest it was just a ploy to ‘increase traffic to her website,’ when as far as I know she doesn’t even have a blog–she posted her account on Jerry Saltz’s Facebook page, where I read it and where AFC picked it up. The entire tone of the letter reflects a knee-jerk hostility toward artists, which ought to be odd in a gallery except that it is so depressingly familiar.

So what I’m getting is that this young woman is expected to 1 )dress in clothing that she cannot possibly afford on the wage she’s paid, 2) be ‘bubbly and enthusiastic’ about the deeply fascinating job of typing shipping labels, 3) learn her job to perfection in a day and a half of training, 4) have no interests or talents outside her underpaid clerical job.
And, of course, take off her clothes when ordered to do so.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 7:49 pm

The more I think about this response, the more it offends me on numerous levels. They refer to Ms. Snow’s ‘blog post’ more than once, and suggest it was just a ploy to ‘increase traffic to her website,’ when as far as I know she doesn’t even have a blog–she posted her account on Jerry Saltz’s Facebook page, where I read it and where AFC picked it up. The entire tone of the letter reflects a knee-jerk hostility toward artists, which ought to be odd in a gallery except that it is so depressingly familiar.

So what I’m getting is that this young woman is expected to 1 )dress in clothing that she cannot possibly afford on the wage she’s paid, 2) be ‘bubbly and enthusiastic’ about the deeply fascinating job of typing shipping labels, 3) learn her job to perfection in a day and a half of training, 4) have no interests or talents outside her underpaid clerical job.
And, of course, take off her clothes when ordered to do so.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 7:49 pm

The more I think about this response, the more it offends me on numerous levels. They refer to Ms. Snow’s ‘blog post’ more than once, and suggest it was just a ploy to ‘increase traffic to her website,’ when as far as I know she doesn’t even have a blog–she posted her account on Jerry Saltz’s Facebook page, where I read it and where AFC picked it up. The entire tone of the letter reflects a knee-jerk hostility toward artists, which ought to be odd in a gallery except that it is so depressingly familiar.

So what I’m getting is that this young woman is expected to 1 )dress in clothing that she cannot possibly afford on the wage she’s paid, 2) be ‘bubbly and enthusiastic’ about the deeply fascinating job of typing shipping labels, 3) learn her job to perfection in a day and a half of training, 4) have no interests or talents outside her underpaid clerical job.
And, of course, take off her clothes when ordered to do so.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 7:49 pm

The more I think about this response, the more it offends me on numerous levels. They refer to Ms. Snow’s ‘blog post’ more than once, and suggest it was just a ploy to ‘increase traffic to her website,’ when as far as I know she doesn’t even have a blog–she posted her account on Jerry Saltz’s Facebook page, where I read it and where AFC picked it up. The entire tone of the letter reflects a knee-jerk hostility toward artists, which ought to be odd in a gallery except that it is so depressingly familiar.

So what I’m getting is that this young woman is expected to 1 )dress in clothing that she cannot possibly afford on the wage she’s paid, 2) be ‘bubbly and enthusiastic’ about the deeply fascinating job of typing shipping labels, 3) learn her job to perfection in a day and a half of training, 4) have no interests or talents outside her underpaid clerical job.
And, of course, take off her clothes when ordered to do so.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 7:49 pm

The more I think about this response, the more it offends me on numerous levels. They refer to Ms. Snow’s ‘blog post’ more than once, and suggest it was just a ploy to ‘increase traffic to her website,’ when as far as I know she doesn’t even have a blog–she posted her account on Jerry Saltz’s Facebook page, where I read it and where AFC picked it up. The entire tone of the letter reflects a knee-jerk hostility toward artists, which ought to be odd in a gallery except that it is so depressingly familiar.

So what I’m getting is that this young woman is expected to 1 )dress in clothing that she cannot possibly afford on the wage she’s paid, 2) be ‘bubbly and enthusiastic’ about the deeply fascinating job of typing shipping labels, 3) learn her job to perfection in a day and a half of training, 4) have no interests or talents outside her underpaid clerical job.
And, of course, take off her clothes when ordered to do so.

Pretty Lady November 25, 2009 at 3:49 pm

The more I think about this response, the more it offends me on numerous levels. They refer to Ms. Snow’s ‘blog post’ more than once, and suggest it was just a ploy to ‘increase traffic to her website,’ when as far as I know she doesn’t even have a blog–she posted her account on Jerry Saltz’s Facebook page, where I read it and where AFC picked it up. The entire tone of the letter reflects a knee-jerk hostility toward artists, which ought to be odd in a gallery except that it is so depressingly familiar.

So what I’m getting is that this young woman is expected to 1 )dress in clothing that she cannot possibly afford on the wage she’s paid, 2) be ‘bubbly and enthusiastic’ about the deeply fascinating job of typing shipping labels, 3) learn her job to perfection in a day and a half of training, 4) have no interests or talents outside her underpaid clerical job.
And, of course, take off her clothes when ordered to do so.

Anonymous November 25, 2009 at 8:09 pm

I always got the impression that the gallery was an Israeli money laundering front.

Anonymous November 25, 2009 at 4:09 pm

I always got the impression that the gallery was an Israeli money laundering front.

anonymous November 25, 2009 at 9:38 pm

I interviewed once for a position at Mike Weiss Gallery. It was a farce: the interviewer had stacked up candidates at ten minute intervals (I saw the check in sheet) and had fallen behind, leaving nervous candidates to haplessly wander around the gallery avoiding one another. When I got my chance to sit down with the director the interview lasted all of three minutes. She accepted the hard copy of my resume and mentioned she was meeting all the candidates to get a feel for what we looked like (quote). I never heard back.

anonymous November 25, 2009 at 9:38 pm

I interviewed once for a position at Mike Weiss Gallery. It was a farce: the interviewer had stacked up candidates at ten minute intervals (I saw the check in sheet) and had fallen behind, leaving nervous candidates to haplessly wander around the gallery avoiding one another. When I got my chance to sit down with the director the interview lasted all of three minutes. She accepted the hard copy of my resume and mentioned she was meeting all the candidates to get a feel for what we looked like (quote). I never heard back.

anonymous November 25, 2009 at 9:38 pm

I interviewed once for a position at Mike Weiss Gallery. It was a farce: the interviewer had stacked up candidates at ten minute intervals (I saw the check in sheet) and had fallen behind, leaving nervous candidates to haplessly wander around the gallery avoiding one another. When I got my chance to sit down with the director the interview lasted all of three minutes. She accepted the hard copy of my resume and mentioned she was meeting all the candidates to get a feel for what we looked like (quote). I never heard back.

anonymous November 25, 2009 at 9:38 pm

I interviewed once for a position at Mike Weiss Gallery. It was a farce: the interviewer had stacked up candidates at ten minute intervals (I saw the check in sheet) and had fallen behind, leaving nervous candidates to haplessly wander around the gallery avoiding one another. When I got my chance to sit down with the director the interview lasted all of three minutes. She accepted the hard copy of my resume and mentioned she was meeting all the candidates to get a feel for what we looked like (quote). I never heard back.

anonymous November 25, 2009 at 9:38 pm

I interviewed once for a position at Mike Weiss Gallery. It was a farce: the interviewer had stacked up candidates at ten minute intervals (I saw the check in sheet) and had fallen behind, leaving nervous candidates to haplessly wander around the gallery avoiding one another. When I got my chance to sit down with the director the interview lasted all of three minutes. She accepted the hard copy of my resume and mentioned she was meeting all the candidates to get a feel for what we looked like (quote). I never heard back.

anonymous November 25, 2009 at 5:38 pm

I interviewed once for a position at Mike Weiss Gallery. It was a farce: the interviewer had stacked up candidates at ten minute intervals (I saw the check in sheet) and had fallen behind, leaving nervous candidates to haplessly wander around the gallery avoiding one another. When I got my chance to sit down with the director the interview lasted all of three minutes. She accepted the hard copy of my resume and mentioned she was meeting all the candidates to get a feel for what we looked like (quote). I never heard back.

Charlotte November 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

I find the gallery response appropriate and forthcoming…all the rest is childish, and I think that it was immature of this young woman to publicly denounce a perfectly fine gallery whatever her motives…a woman scorned, etc. etc.

Charlotte November 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

I find the gallery response appropriate and forthcoming…all the rest is childish, and I think that it was immature of this young woman to publicly denounce a perfectly fine gallery whatever her motives…a woman scorned, etc. etc.

Charlotte November 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

I find the gallery response appropriate and forthcoming…all the rest is childish, and I think that it was immature of this young woman to publicly denounce a perfectly fine gallery whatever her motives…a woman scorned, etc. etc.

Charlotte November 25, 2009 at 9:55 pm

I find the gallery response appropriate and forthcoming…all the rest is childish, and I think that it was immature of this young woman to publicly denounce a perfectly fine gallery whatever her motives…a woman scorned, etc. etc.

Charlotte November 25, 2009 at 5:55 pm

I find the gallery response appropriate and forthcoming…all the rest is childish, and I think that it was immature of this young woman to publicly denounce a perfectly fine gallery whatever her motives…a woman scorned, etc. etc.

Anonymous November 25, 2009 at 10:11 pm

Two days just wasn’t enough to come up with a good story to cover their ass.

First, Meghann worked as a registrar for one of the largest fine art auction companies in the United States before being laid off.

It’s also assumed that the Weiss gallery asked Ms. Snow for a Resume/CV which must have blatantly advertised that she was an artist. She just received an MFA in Painting from Parsons less than 2 years ago. Does this gallery really expect us to believe that they never made the connection.

This gallery deserves all the bad press they brought upon themselves.

Good Luck Meghann!

Anonymous November 25, 2009 at 10:11 pm

Two days just wasn’t enough to come up with a good story to cover their ass.

First, Meghann worked as a registrar for one of the largest fine art auction companies in the United States before being laid off.

It’s also assumed that the Weiss gallery asked Ms. Snow for a Resume/CV which must have blatantly advertised that she was an artist. She just received an MFA in Painting from Parsons less than 2 years ago. Does this gallery really expect us to believe that they never made the connection.

This gallery deserves all the bad press they brought upon themselves.

Good Luck Meghann!

Anonymous November 25, 2009 at 10:11 pm

Two days just wasn’t enough to come up with a good story to cover their ass.

First, Meghann worked as a registrar for one of the largest fine art auction companies in the United States before being laid off.

It’s also assumed that the Weiss gallery asked Ms. Snow for a Resume/CV which must have blatantly advertised that she was an artist. She just received an MFA in Painting from Parsons less than 2 years ago. Does this gallery really expect us to believe that they never made the connection.

This gallery deserves all the bad press they brought upon themselves.

Good Luck Meghann!

Anonymous November 25, 2009 at 6:11 pm

Two days just wasn’t enough to come up with a good story to cover their ass.

First, Meghann worked as a registrar for one of the largest fine art auction companies in the United States before being laid off.

It’s also assumed that the Weiss gallery asked Ms. Snow for a Resume/CV which must have blatantly advertised that she was an artist. She just received an MFA in Painting from Parsons less than 2 years ago. Does this gallery really expect us to believe that they never made the connection.

This gallery deserves all the bad press they brought upon themselves.

Good Luck Meghann!

onomatopoea November 25, 2009 at 10:34 pm

An “Israeli money laundering front” sounds more plausible than “great gallery with a reputation to tarnish” My theory is this is all a put on, designed to generate publicity for Mike Weiss – no publicity is bad publicity in the art world, right?nnBut if this is for real; who wants a professionalized art world regulated by moralizing bloggers? What next, no drugs? It is a slippery slope indeed. Maybe you should give up this crusade to crucify Mike Weiss and focus instead on eating turkey. I like skin.

onomatopoea November 25, 2009 at 6:34 pm

An “Israeli money laundering front” sounds more plausible than “great gallery with a reputation to tarnish” My theory is this is all a put on, designed to generate publicity for Mike Weiss – no publicity is bad publicity in the art world, right?\n\nBut if this is for real; who wants a professionalized art world regulated by moralizing bloggers? What next, no drugs? It is a slippery slope indeed. Maybe you should give up this crusade to crucify Mike Weiss and focus instead on eating turkey. I like skin.

clinquant November 25, 2009 at 11:33 pm

Gimli, son of Glóin, got himself an art gallery?

clinquant November 25, 2009 at 11:33 pm

Gimli, son of Glóin, got himself an art gallery?

clinquant November 25, 2009 at 11:33 pm

Gimli, son of Glóin, got himself an art gallery?

clinquant November 25, 2009 at 11:33 pm

Gimli, son of Glóin, got himself an art gallery?

clinquant November 25, 2009 at 11:33 pm

Gimli, son of Glóin, got himself an art gallery?

clinquant November 25, 2009 at 7:33 pm

Gimli, son of Glóin, got himself an art gallery?

Benjamin Reeve November 26, 2009 at 12:13 am

Being an artist, I am not sure I have a right to comment on this

Benjamin Reeve November 26, 2009 at 12:13 am

Being an artist, I am not sure I have a right to comment on this

Benjamin Reeve November 26, 2009 at 12:13 am

Being an artist, I am not sure I have a right to comment on this

Benjamin Reeve November 26, 2009 at 12:13 am

Being an artist, I am not sure I have a right to comment on this

Benjamin Reeve November 26, 2009 at 12:13 am

Being an artist, I am not sure I have a right to comment on this

Benjamin Reeve November 25, 2009 at 8:13 pm

Being an artist, I am not sure I have a right to comment on this

Ozma November 26, 2009 at 1:34 am

This may sound petty, but in light of all this bullshit, I’d like to submit that Mike Weiss looks sort of like a strange troll. Don’t get me wrong– I like variety in humans. However, Imagine a female with similar rotund plain-ness attempting to get a job there, or at any high end gallery in NYC. Last time I was in Chelsea the gallery employees were all tragically hip and just as tragically thin, and a good amount of them looked at me like I most definitely didn’t belong. I guess they’d say I don’t.

Ozma November 25, 2009 at 9:34 pm

This may sound petty, but in light of all this bullshit, I’d like to submit that Mike Weiss looks sort of like a strange troll. Don’t get me wrong– I like variety in humans. However, Imagine a female with similar rotund plain-ness attempting to get a job there, or at any high end gallery in NYC. Last time I was in Chelsea the gallery employees were all tragically hip and just as tragically thin, and a good amount of them looked at me like I most definitely didn’t belong. I guess they’d say I don’t.

MATTHEW ROSE November 26, 2009 at 5:30 am

Will this story have enough legs to make it to Miami?

MATTHEW ROSE November 26, 2009 at 5:30 am

Will this story have enough legs to make it to Miami?

MATTHEW ROSE November 26, 2009 at 5:30 am

Will this story have enough legs to make it to Miami?

MATTHEW ROSE November 26, 2009 at 5:30 am

Will this story have enough legs to make it to Miami?

MATTHEW ROSE November 26, 2009 at 5:30 am

Will this story have enough legs to make it to Miami?

MATTHEW ROSE November 26, 2009 at 1:30 am

Will this story have enough legs to make it to Miami?

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 8:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 8:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 8:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 8:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 8:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 8:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

Richard Cranium November 26, 2009 at 4:22 am

pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.

joy garnett November 26, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Can we get Huff Po to pick this up? Anyone?

joy garnett November 26, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Can we get Huff Po to pick this up? Anyone?

joy garnett November 26, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Can we get Huff Po to pick this up? Anyone?

joy garnett November 26, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Can we get Huff Po to pick this up? Anyone?

joy garnett November 26, 2009 at 2:20 pm

Can we get Huff Po to pick this up? Anyone?

joy garnett November 26, 2009 at 10:20 am

Can we get Huff Po to pick this up? Anyone?

Pete Newcurator November 26, 2009 at 5:11 pm

“Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.”nnSo, we can add libel to the list as well then.

Pete Newcurator November 26, 2009 at 5:11 pm

“Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.”nnSo, we can add libel to the list as well then.

Pete Newcurator November 26, 2009 at 5:11 pm

“Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.”nnSo, we can add libel to the list as well then.

Pete Newcurator November 26, 2009 at 5:11 pm

“Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.”nnSo, we can add libel to the list as well then.

Pete Newcurator November 26, 2009 at 5:11 pm

“Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.”nnSo, we can add libel to the list as well then.

Pete Newcurator November 26, 2009 at 1:11 pm

“Upon arriving at the gallery for her first two days of training, Ms. Snow did not bring the same excitement for the position she had expressed in her interview and in fact revealed herself to be an inexperienced registrar, unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own. It may be true that Ms. Snow is an accomplished ballet dancer and recipient of Deans List awards but that has hardly enriched her skills as a professional registrar.”\n\nSo, we can add libel to the list as well then.

puffin November 26, 2009 at 5:27 pm

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

puffin November 26, 2009 at 1:27 pm

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Shanny November 26, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Poor performance comes with poor training. Had she been properly trained perhaps she would have excelled? Reputable companies have a probation period. During that time proper training must be insured. Perhaps a tigher shirt would have secured her continued employment?

Shanny November 26, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Poor performance comes with poor training. Had she been properly trained perhaps she would have excelled? Reputable companies have a probation period. During that time proper training must be insured. Perhaps a tigher shirt would have secured her continued employment?

Shanny November 26, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Poor performance comes with poor training. Had she been properly trained perhaps she would have excelled? Reputable companies have a probation period. During that time proper training must be insured. Perhaps a tigher shirt would have secured her continued employment?

Shanny November 26, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Poor performance comes with poor training. Had she been properly trained perhaps she would have excelled? Reputable companies have a probation period. During that time proper training must be insured. Perhaps a tigher shirt would have secured her continued employment?

Shanny November 26, 2009 at 5:35 pm

Poor performance comes with poor training. Had she been properly trained perhaps she would have excelled? Reputable companies have a probation period. During that time proper training must be insured. Perhaps a tigher shirt would have secured her continued employment?

Shanny November 26, 2009 at 1:35 pm

Poor performance comes with poor training. Had she been properly trained perhaps she would have excelled? Reputable companies have a probation period. During that time proper training must be insured. Perhaps a tigher shirt would have secured her continued employment?

kim November 26, 2009 at 6:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

kim November 26, 2009 at 6:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

kim November 26, 2009 at 6:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

kim November 26, 2009 at 6:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

kim November 26, 2009 at 6:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

kim November 26, 2009 at 6:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

kim November 26, 2009 at 2:38 pm

I agree with Wendy. Shame on Mike for being a schmuck! The fact of the matter is 2 days isn’t enough time for a person to settle into any new job or feel comfortable with their new surroundings. And if she was inappropriately dressed they should have sent her home to change or explained their dress code thoroughly. To pull someone in the back and ask her to remove articles of clothing and change hair styles the way described is unprofessional to say the least. Smells like a power trip to me.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 8:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. nnWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 8:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. nnWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 8:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. nnWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 8:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. nnWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 8:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. nnWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 8:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. nnWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

Jill November 26, 2009 at 4:24 pm

As I wrote to Meghann early on, this case is sexual harassment at its finest, replete with a litany of discriminatory acts. Unfortunately she didn’t stay long enough to create a paper-file on his conduct. However the fact she has stepped forward to notify people about a situation that shows MW Gallery’s complete disregard for the rights of employees as stated in Employment Law, reveals the type of environment that his business is like. \n\nWeiss’ email above rings hollow and steps away from the fact that he broke Employment Law. I would like to hear him explain away his various discriminatory acts that were followed through with and then covered up in the act of firing.

kim November 27, 2009 at 5:10 am

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Omg! Best comment so far! 🙂

kim November 27, 2009 at 5:10 am

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Omg! Best comment so far! 🙂

kim November 27, 2009 at 5:10 am

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Omg! Best comment so far! 🙂

kim November 27, 2009 at 5:10 am

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Omg! Best comment so far! 🙂

kim November 27, 2009 at 5:10 am

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Omg! Best comment so far! 🙂

kim November 27, 2009 at 1:10 am

That guy looks like a fun-sized “king of queens”.

Omg! Best comment so far! 🙂

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:11 am

This story isn’t really a shocker, I must say. Glad you guys are covering it- maybe some light will be shed on the depressing world that is working in New York- but my own personal experience is that a great many jobs end this way in the city. I was let go from a similar job after a few days for not having “the right personality”. It is especially true when you have to deal with bourgeois clientele. I absolutely can believe that that this behavior by employers is possibly common at galleries. Looks and personality are assessed when your job is selling expensive things to people with lots of money. The back room incident is super creepy but I can also believe that Weiss is so far away in la-la land that the off color nature of such behavior may not even have entered his head.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:11 am

This story isn’t really a shocker, I must say. Glad you guys are covering it- maybe some light will be shed on the depressing world that is working in New York- but my own personal experience is that a great many jobs end this way in the city. I was let go from a similar job after a few days for not having “the right personality”. It is especially true when you have to deal with bourgeois clientele. I absolutely can believe that that this behavior by employers is possibly common at galleries. Looks and personality are assessed when your job is selling expensive things to people with lots of money. The back room incident is super creepy but I can also believe that Weiss is so far away in la-la land that the off color nature of such behavior may not even have entered his head.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:11 am

This story isn’t really a shocker, I must say. Glad you guys are covering it- maybe some light will be shed on the depressing world that is working in New York- but my own personal experience is that a great many jobs end this way in the city. I was let go from a similar job after a few days for not having “the right personality”. It is especially true when you have to deal with bourgeois clientele. I absolutely can believe that that this behavior by employers is possibly common at galleries. Looks and personality are assessed when your job is selling expensive things to people with lots of money. The back room incident is super creepy but I can also believe that Weiss is so far away in la-la land that the off color nature of such behavior may not even have entered his head.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:11 am

This story isn’t really a shocker, I must say. Glad you guys are covering it- maybe some light will be shed on the depressing world that is working in New York- but my own personal experience is that a great many jobs end this way in the city. I was let go from a similar job after a few days for not having “the right personality”. It is especially true when you have to deal with bourgeois clientele. I absolutely can believe that that this behavior by employers is possibly common at galleries. Looks and personality are assessed when your job is selling expensive things to people with lots of money. The back room incident is super creepy but I can also believe that Weiss is so far away in la-la land that the off color nature of such behavior may not even have entered his head.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:11 am

This story isn’t really a shocker, I must say. Glad you guys are covering it- maybe some light will be shed on the depressing world that is working in New York- but my own personal experience is that a great many jobs end this way in the city. I was let go from a similar job after a few days for not having “the right personality”. It is especially true when you have to deal with bourgeois clientele. I absolutely can believe that that this behavior by employers is possibly common at galleries. Looks and personality are assessed when your job is selling expensive things to people with lots of money. The back room incident is super creepy but I can also believe that Weiss is so far away in la-la land that the off color nature of such behavior may not even have entered his head.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 1:11 am

This story isn’t really a shocker, I must say. Glad you guys are covering it- maybe some light will be shed on the depressing world that is working in New York- but my own personal experience is that a great many jobs end this way in the city. I was let go from a similar job after a few days for not having “the right personality”. It is especially true when you have to deal with bourgeois clientele. I absolutely can believe that that this behavior by employers is possibly common at galleries. Looks and personality are assessed when your job is selling expensive things to people with lots of money. The back room incident is super creepy but I can also believe that Weiss is so far away in la-la land that the off color nature of such behavior may not even have entered his head.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:35 am

I agree this undressing incident smacks of sexual harassment.

The problem is that (in my experience) it’s very difficult to actually bring a case for sexual harassment in the art world. It happened to me: and much, much, worse than this. Disgusting, if-I-told-you-you-wouldn’t-believe-it worse, and at a Big Name gallery for over a year. I tried calling city agencies—no luck. I didn’t have the money for an attorney. It got to the point where I was embarrassed to tell my friends and family things that were being said, because it made me feel like such a loser for continuing to work under those conditions. Eventually I left. The more time passes, the angrier I am about what happened.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:35 am

I agree this undressing incident smacks of sexual harassment.

The problem is that (in my experience) it’s very difficult to actually bring a case for sexual harassment in the art world. It happened to me: and much, much, worse than this. Disgusting, if-I-told-you-you-wouldn’t-believe-it worse, and at a Big Name gallery for over a year. I tried calling city agencies—no luck. I didn’t have the money for an attorney. It got to the point where I was embarrassed to tell my friends and family things that were being said, because it made me feel like such a loser for continuing to work under those conditions. Eventually I left. The more time passes, the angrier I am about what happened.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 5:35 am

I agree this undressing incident smacks of sexual harassment.

The problem is that (in my experience) it’s very difficult to actually bring a case for sexual harassment in the art world. It happened to me: and much, much, worse than this. Disgusting, if-I-told-you-you-wouldn’t-believe-it worse, and at a Big Name gallery for over a year. I tried calling city agencies—no luck. I didn’t have the money for an attorney. It got to the point where I was embarrassed to tell my friends and family things that were being said, because it made me feel like such a loser for continuing to work under those conditions. Eventually I left. The more time passes, the angrier I am about what happened.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 1:35 am

I agree this undressing incident smacks of sexual harassment.

The problem is that (in my experience) it’s very difficult to actually bring a case for sexual harassment in the art world. It happened to me: and much, much, worse than this. Disgusting, if-I-told-you-you-wouldn’t-believe-it worse, and at a Big Name gallery for over a year. I tried calling city agencies—no luck. I didn’t have the money for an attorney. It got to the point where I was embarrassed to tell my friends and family things that were being said, because it made me feel like such a loser for continuing to work under those conditions. Eventually I left. The more time passes, the angrier I am about what happened.

Mark Staff Brandl November 27, 2009 at 10:30 am

Oh God, “she’s an ARTIST” — he mouths that as if it were a self-evident insult. Those few words display his misbegotten attutde completely. As we say here: Wixer.

Mark Staff Brandl November 27, 2009 at 10:30 am

Oh God, “she’s an ARTIST” — he mouths that as if it were a self-evident insult. Those few words display his misbegotten attutde completely. As we say here: Wixer.

Mark Staff Brandl November 27, 2009 at 10:30 am

Oh God, “she’s an ARTIST” — he mouths that as if it were a self-evident insult. Those few words display his misbegotten attutde completely. As we say here: Wixer.

Mark Staff Brandl November 27, 2009 at 6:30 am

Oh God, “she’s an ARTIST” — he mouths that as if it were a self-evident insult. Those few words display his misbegotten attutde completely. As we say here: Wixer.

Joanne Mattera November 27, 2009 at 8:56 pm

Anonymous 27,
Don’t be anonymous. It’s not slander if it’s true. If you have any record of conversations, if you told anyone, if you can get a co-worker to corroborate, then you’re more than covered. And if you can’t afford an attorney, sell your plot line to Law and Order SVU. I’m serious. Then you’ll be able to afford an attorney.

P.S. Mike Weiss passing judgment on appearances. Isn’t that some kind of oxymoron?

Joanne Mattera November 27, 2009 at 8:56 pm

Anonymous 27,
Don’t be anonymous. It’s not slander if it’s true. If you have any record of conversations, if you told anyone, if you can get a co-worker to corroborate, then you’re more than covered. And if you can’t afford an attorney, sell your plot line to Law and Order SVU. I’m serious. Then you’ll be able to afford an attorney.

P.S. Mike Weiss passing judgment on appearances. Isn’t that some kind of oxymoron?

Joanne Mattera November 27, 2009 at 8:56 pm

Anonymous 27,
Don’t be anonymous. It’s not slander if it’s true. If you have any record of conversations, if you told anyone, if you can get a co-worker to corroborate, then you’re more than covered. And if you can’t afford an attorney, sell your plot line to Law and Order SVU. I’m serious. Then you’ll be able to afford an attorney.

P.S. Mike Weiss passing judgment on appearances. Isn’t that some kind of oxymoron?

Joanne Mattera November 27, 2009 at 4:56 pm

Anonymous 27,
Don’t be anonymous. It’s not slander if it’s true. If you have any record of conversations, if you told anyone, if you can get a co-worker to corroborate, then you’re more than covered. And if you can’t afford an attorney, sell your plot line to Law and Order SVU. I’m serious. Then you’ll be able to afford an attorney.

P.S. Mike Weiss passing judgment on appearances. Isn’t that some kind of oxymoron?

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 11:58 pm

Joanne, that is a terrific idea.

Anonymous November 27, 2009 at 7:58 pm

Joanne, that is a terrific idea.

juan November 28, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Charlie Finch (as Janet Preston during his Coagula days) described Mike Weiss as “A Frog covered in Pubic Hair”

juan November 28, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Charlie Finch (as Janet Preston during his Coagula days) described Mike Weiss as “A Frog covered in Pubic Hair”

juan November 28, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Charlie Finch (as Janet Preston during his Coagula days) described Mike Weiss as “A Frog covered in Pubic Hair”

juan November 28, 2009 at 8:52 pm

Charlie Finch (as Janet Preston during his Coagula days) described Mike Weiss as “A Frog covered in Pubic Hair”

juan November 28, 2009 at 4:52 pm

Charlie Finch (as Janet Preston during his Coagula days) described Mike Weiss as “A Frog covered in Pubic Hair”

Stefany November 30, 2009 at 12:27 am

Mike Weiss and his response both stink. It’s hardly a real gallery by my standards and their Director is woefully underpaid so god only knows what Meghann would be earning even if she was willing to put up with his harassment.

It’s obvious he’s just a pig. I say BOYCOTT. Don’t go, don’t review, don’t apply and don’t let him represent you.

Stefany November 30, 2009 at 12:27 am

Mike Weiss and his response both stink. It’s hardly a real gallery by my standards and their Director is woefully underpaid so god only knows what Meghann would be earning even if she was willing to put up with his harassment.

It’s obvious he’s just a pig. I say BOYCOTT. Don’t go, don’t review, don’t apply and don’t let him represent you.

Stefany November 30, 2009 at 12:27 am

Mike Weiss and his response both stink. It’s hardly a real gallery by my standards and their Director is woefully underpaid so god only knows what Meghann would be earning even if she was willing to put up with his harassment.

It’s obvious he’s just a pig. I say BOYCOTT. Don’t go, don’t review, don’t apply and don’t let him represent you.

Stefany November 30, 2009 at 12:27 am

Mike Weiss and his response both stink. It’s hardly a real gallery by my standards and their Director is woefully underpaid so god only knows what Meghann would be earning even if she was willing to put up with his harassment.

It’s obvious he’s just a pig. I say BOYCOTT. Don’t go, don’t review, don’t apply and don’t let him represent you.

Stefany November 29, 2009 at 8:27 pm

Mike Weiss and his response both stink. It’s hardly a real gallery by my standards and their Director is woefully underpaid so god only knows what Meghann would be earning even if she was willing to put up with his harassment.

It’s obvious he’s just a pig. I say BOYCOTT. Don’t go, don’t review, don’t apply and don’t let him represent you.

Dr. Lisa November 30, 2009 at 4:51 am

The point is he treated her like a “thing” instead of a person. Weiss wouldn’t do that to a man.

-Dr.Lisa

Dr. Lisa November 30, 2009 at 4:51 am

The point is he treated her like a “thing” instead of a person. Weiss wouldn’t do that to a man.

-Dr.Lisa

Dr. Lisa November 30, 2009 at 4:51 am

The point is he treated her like a “thing” instead of a person. Weiss wouldn’t do that to a man.

-Dr.Lisa

Dr. Lisa November 30, 2009 at 4:51 am

The point is he treated her like a “thing” instead of a person. Weiss wouldn’t do that to a man.

-Dr.Lisa

Dr. Lisa November 30, 2009 at 12:51 am

The point is he treated her like a “thing” instead of a person. Weiss wouldn’t do that to a man.

-Dr.Lisa

MATTHEW ROSE November 30, 2009 at 2:26 pm

What’s secretly wonderful about this thread is that Mike Weiss and his gallery staff are spending a lot of time reading the comments posted here. I suppose that’s just one of the “responsibilities of the position that requires an enormous amount of energy, self motivation and initiative.”

MATTHEW ROSE November 30, 2009 at 10:26 am

What’s secretly wonderful about this thread is that Mike Weiss and his gallery staff are spending a lot of time reading the comments posted here. I suppose that’s just one of the “responsibilities of the position that requires an enormous amount of energy, self motivation and initiative.”

Mary from Arizona November 30, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Hi Matthew Rose,

Good point!

Mike Weiss and Co. totally have this shit hooked up to their RSS feeds and are most definitely reading every comment, yet they remain silent.
I wonder if they think now that they should not have responded with their ass-clown of a response.

ps. Hi Mike Weiss!!!!

Mary from Arizona November 30, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Hi Matthew Rose,

Good point!

Mike Weiss and Co. totally have this shit hooked up to their RSS feeds and are most definitely reading every comment, yet they remain silent.
I wonder if they think now that they should not have responded with their ass-clown of a response.

ps. Hi Mike Weiss!!!!

Mary from Arizona November 30, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Hi Matthew Rose,

Good point!

Mike Weiss and Co. totally have this shit hooked up to their RSS feeds and are most definitely reading every comment, yet they remain silent.
I wonder if they think now that they should not have responded with their ass-clown of a response.

ps. Hi Mike Weiss!!!!

Mary from Arizona November 30, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Hi Matthew Rose,

Good point!

Mike Weiss and Co. totally have this shit hooked up to their RSS feeds and are most definitely reading every comment, yet they remain silent.
I wonder if they think now that they should not have responded with their ass-clown of a response.

ps. Hi Mike Weiss!!!!

Mary from Arizona November 30, 2009 at 3:22 pm

Hi Matthew Rose,

Good point!

Mike Weiss and Co. totally have this shit hooked up to their RSS feeds and are most definitely reading every comment, yet they remain silent.
I wonder if they think now that they should not have responded with their ass-clown of a response.

ps. Hi Mike Weiss!!!!

Mary from Arizona November 30, 2009 at 11:22 am

Hi Matthew Rose,

Good point!

Mike Weiss and Co. totally have this shit hooked up to their RSS feeds and are most definitely reading every comment, yet they remain silent.
I wonder if they think now that they should not have responded with their ass-clown of a response.

ps. Hi Mike Weiss!!!!

encolere November 30, 2009 at 3:55 pm

To Richard Cranium:

“pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.”

Can you clarify exactly what you meant by this statement?

encolere November 30, 2009 at 3:55 pm

To Richard Cranium:

“pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.”

Can you clarify exactly what you meant by this statement?

encolere November 30, 2009 at 3:55 pm

To Richard Cranium:

“pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.”

Can you clarify exactly what you meant by this statement?

encolere November 30, 2009 at 11:55 am

To Richard Cranium:

“pfft.. have yall SEEN MS. snow? straight up, though.”

Can you clarify exactly what you meant by this statement?

Anonymous December 1, 2009 at 7:49 pm

To: Encolere,

Yes I have seen Ms. Snow and shes a good looking gal. Have you ever seen her?… Don’t make a snap judgment if you have never seen her…

Anonymous December 1, 2009 at 7:49 pm

To: Encolere,

Yes I have seen Ms. Snow and shes a good looking gal. Have you ever seen her?… Don’t make a snap judgment if you have never seen her…

Anonymous December 1, 2009 at 3:49 pm

To: Encolere,

Yes I have seen Ms. Snow and shes a good looking gal. Have you ever seen her?… Don’t make a snap judgment if you have never seen her…

Andy December 2, 2009 at 6:19 am

mike heffernan

Andy December 2, 2009 at 2:19 am

mike heffernan

Anonymous December 2, 2009 at 8:17 pm

“unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own.”nnI’m sure she is capable of completing an email if she has a website, as you mention at the end of your letter.

Anonymous December 2, 2009 at 4:17 pm

“unable to even properly complete a shipping order or email on her own.”\n\nI’m sure she is capable of completing an email if she has a website, as you mention at the end of your letter.

Saul December 2, 2009 at 8:55 pm

Will all this negative press effect the gallery’s sales? If I were a collector I’d lean against giving him my business, but since I’m an artist I can’t help feeling bad for his stable. This must put his artists in an awkward situation.

Saul December 2, 2009 at 4:55 pm

Will all this negative press effect the gallery’s sales? If I were a collector I’d lean against giving him my business, but since I’m an artist I can’t help feeling bad for his stable. This must put his artists in an awkward situation.

Richard Cranium December 2, 2009 at 9:40 pm

-ENCLORE:nnBy my statement I meant: She’s not attractive. I am surprised she got this job in the first place. Unless the interviews were in a dark, foggy alley.nn-ANONYMOUS:nnYes I also have seen Ms. Snow. Thus my comment. Not even a snap judgement, as her personality leaves much to be desired as well. Anonymous dear, did you meet her in the aforementioned dark, foggy alley perchance?

Richard Cranium December 2, 2009 at 5:40 pm

-ENCLORE:\n\nBy my statement I meant: She’s not attractive. I am surprised she got this job in the first place. Unless the interviews were in a dark, foggy alley.\n\n-ANONYMOUS:\n\nYes I also have seen Ms. Snow. Thus my comment. Not even a snap judgement, as her personality leaves much to be desired as well. Anonymous dear, did you meet her in the aforementioned dark, foggy alley perchance?

NotanArtist December 3, 2009 at 3:18 am

This whole situation is just hilarious. First off, Mike Weiss’ actions are totally inexcusable if the alleged actions took place, . I have known Meghann for quite some time now, and even if she does embellish the truth, it is never to the point where the truth is obscured.

Safe to say, however, that this action and follow-up comments show that the gallery likes to paint itself to be professional, but acts at a much lower, unprofessional level.

I feel sorry for Mike, who obviously has to compensate for his troll-esque traits by insulting and degrading his new employees in order to make himself feel better.

And, for the record, Meghann is quite attractive 😉

NotanArtist December 2, 2009 at 11:18 pm

This whole situation is just hilarious. First off, Mike Weiss’ actions are totally inexcusable if the alleged actions took place, . I have known Meghann for quite some time now, and even if she does embellish the truth, it is never to the point where the truth is obscured.

Safe to say, however, that this action and follow-up comments show that the gallery likes to paint itself to be professional, but acts at a much lower, unprofessional level.

I feel sorry for Mike, who obviously has to compensate for his troll-esque traits by insulting and degrading his new employees in order to make himself feel better.

And, for the record, Meghann is quite attractive 😉

olivia mcginley December 5, 2009 at 5:35 am

since when did we start thinking chelsea gallerists had ethics and morals? seriously, who cares! most dealers are shady, mike weiss is no more shady than any others. in fact he’s probably better. i’m sure a lot worse goes on in the back rooms than this! there’s nothing wrong with asking the people who work in your gallery to look nice? have you been around the chelsea galleries? all the employees are super-models! they are all playing the same game. no need to scape-goat little ol mike. always gotta blame the heebs, huh?! PS. i am a young woman and i sure as hell would not be inspected in some back room by anyone. what kind of girl agrees to that kind of thing? and then only complains about it when she gets fired. i’m sure if she got the job, she wouldn’t have had as much problem with the inspection.

olivia mcginley December 5, 2009 at 1:35 am

since when did we start thinking chelsea gallerists had ethics and morals? seriously, who cares! most dealers are shady, mike weiss is no more shady than any others. in fact he’s probably better. i’m sure a lot worse goes on in the back rooms than this! there’s nothing wrong with asking the people who work in your gallery to look nice? have you been around the chelsea galleries? all the employees are super-models! they are all playing the same game. no need to scape-goat little ol mike. always gotta blame the heebs, huh?! PS. i am a young woman and i sure as hell would not be inspected in some back room by anyone. what kind of girl agrees to that kind of thing? and then only complains about it when she gets fired. i’m sure if she got the job, she wouldn’t have had as much problem with the inspection.

fern December 5, 2009 at 8:25 pm

This comment is addressed to Olivia. Listen good.. I happen to know Ms. Snow. She worked for a reputable REPUTABLE auction house right out of graduate school. Due to the economy she was the last one hired and the first to go with DIGNITY. She was NOT treated like a piece of meat! I take offense that you talk about her like she was some piece of whatever when she has a GOOD Art network in NYC. her job was not to meet with the public at Mike Weiss Gallery. As for HEEBS you are showing your ignorace like someone with a paper tuchas!

fern December 5, 2009 at 4:25 pm

This comment is addressed to Olivia. Listen good.. I happen to know Ms. Snow. She worked for a reputable REPUTABLE auction house right out of graduate school. Due to the economy she was the last one hired and the first to go with DIGNITY. She was NOT treated like a piece of meat! I take offense that you talk about her like she was some piece of whatever when she has a GOOD Art network in NYC. her job was not to meet with the public at Mike Weiss Gallery. As for HEEBS you are showing your ignorace like someone with a paper tuchas!

Trevor December 7, 2009 at 5:16 am

People were talking about Weiss vs. Snow at Scope but If they didn’t know I told them. I watched him verbally abuse the director (Molly)of Scope for getting his crates wet. I saw what sort of person he was after that He is a angry little man. I did hear he was part of a Israeli mafia money laundering scam.

Trevor December 7, 2009 at 1:16 am

People were talking about Weiss vs. Snow at Scope but If they didn’t know I told them. I watched him verbally abuse the director (Molly)of Scope for getting his crates wet. I saw what sort of person he was after that He is a angry little man. I did hear he was part of a Israeli mafia money laundering scam.

sami December 8, 2009 at 9:11 pm

Mike Weiss isn’t the only insecure schmuck dealer in town. Most are… including the big branded ones! I think it’s a requirement in order to get into that racket. His behavior, however, is totally sophomoric and pedestrian, not to mention his taste. His client list probably consists of the same few people that he has to beg, monthly, to buy the third-tier work he represents, in order to satisfy his Israeli angels. He treats most of his artists like crap (Napoleon complex), and former directors are pretentious bimbos in tight skirts (not conscientious art professionals) that couldn’t hold a reasonable conversation if their lives depended on it. Upon visiting a few times, with collector/acquaintances, we recalled a couple of staffers in the back always looking embarrassed for the primitive behavior of the front desk. Not a good way to run a business. Should be a vanity gallery for has-beens.

sami December 8, 2009 at 5:11 pm

Mike Weiss isn’t the only insecure schmuck dealer in town. Most are… including the big branded ones! I think it’s a requirement in order to get into that racket. His behavior, however, is totally sophomoric and pedestrian, not to mention his taste. His client list probably consists of the same few people that he has to beg, monthly, to buy the third-tier work he represents, in order to satisfy his Israeli angels. He treats most of his artists like crap (Napoleon complex), and former directors are pretentious bimbos in tight skirts (not conscientious art professionals) that couldn’t hold a reasonable conversation if their lives depended on it. Upon visiting a few times, with collector/acquaintances, we recalled a couple of staffers in the back always looking embarrassed for the primitive behavior of the front desk. Not a good way to run a business. Should be a vanity gallery for has-beens.

nicky December 18, 2009 at 3:11 am

I am coming to this rather late in the game — but nevertheless — as a former Mike Weiss Gallery (barely paid) intern, I wasn’t the least bit shocked to hear this unfortunate tale. What’s surprising is that it’s taken this long for one of Mike’s “minions” to publicly call him out on his chauvinistic b.s.

Meghann, my hat goes off to you. Not only did you manage to get the best of this creep, but you left with your integrity intact. Believe me when I say this: having no job at all is a far, far better fate than spending just one minute employed at this second rate schlock house.

I’m sorry you had to endure his beady eyed stare – a chilling discomfort I felt many times while subjected to similar sadistic inspections over the course of my months-long service – but you are, in fact, LUCKY that he fired you, and lucky that you will never have to see his sniveling, scowling, ghoulish and fiendish, fat furry face ever again. Mazel tov!

nicky December 17, 2009 at 11:11 pm

I am coming to this rather late in the game — but nevertheless — as a former Mike Weiss Gallery (barely paid) intern, I wasn’t the least bit shocked to hear this unfortunate tale. What’s surprising is that it’s taken this long for one of Mike’s “minions” to publicly call him out on his chauvinistic b.s.

Meghann, my hat goes off to you. Not only did you manage to get the best of this creep, but you left with your integrity intact. Believe me when I say this: having no job at all is a far, far better fate than spending just one minute employed at this second rate schlock house.

I’m sorry you had to endure his beady eyed stare – a chilling discomfort I felt many times while subjected to similar sadistic inspections over the course of my months-long service – but you are, in fact, LUCKY that he fired you, and lucky that you will never have to see his sniveling, scowling, ghoulish and fiendish, fat furry face ever again. Mazel tov!

Mitchell December 21, 2009 at 8:15 pm

This gallery sounds like a joke. It’s the artists who show there that we should feel the most sorry for. Imagine being represented by someone with such a dirty reputation and poor people skills. Obviously any collector who goes to this gallery isn’t looking for serious art. Good for you Meghann!

Mitchell December 21, 2009 at 4:15 pm

This gallery sounds like a joke. It’s the artists who show there that we should feel the most sorry for. Imagine being represented by someone with such a dirty reputation and poor people skills. Obviously any collector who goes to this gallery isn’t looking for serious art. Good for you Meghann!

ipwatchlist January 14, 2012 at 4:11 pm

Regarding allegations of money laundering at Mike Weiss Gallery, I recommend looking into their relationship with Eileen Kaminsky. It seems on a few instances I’m familiar with, that when Mike invests money in an artist he’s talking with but fails to sell their work through the course of the exhibition Eileen Kaminsky steps in for damage control.

Quite a few galleries seem to have regular collectors of this sort, that make seemingly obligatory purchases from show to show as a way of protecting their investments in the gallery. It definitely casts a shadow of doubt on whether collectors are actually buying work for the love of art. Collector’s often like to act like they are altruistic philanthropist humanitarians when in truth they are just nurturing selfish political ambitions.

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