Effects of the crisis on the galleries
The Corona crisis hit the Galeria Frank Krüger hard. All four galleries (Berlin – Mallorca: Palma, Cala Ratjada and Artà) had to be closed due to the lockdown. Nevertheless, rents are still running. The gallery in Artà was due to open in April 2020. Since this was not possible, Frank and Laure found a great solution: a virtual opening of the art gallery. As a result of the closure, the employees cannot work either and no more sales are generated.
All shops are well stocked with unique art works and sculptures. In September Frank and Laura were in New York to buy great works. Now these can neither be shown nor sold.
Financially, this condition is a disaster, just like for any other self-employed person. Frank and Laura are currently focusing on online marketing. This is an area that was previously treated only in passing. The website exists for years as well as various social media channels such as Facebook or Instagram. These marketing tools are now being used more actively to present and sell art online.
The artist Frank Krüger in times like these
Frank quickly moved his studio to his garage. Everything in it has been cleared out so that there is enough space to paint. When the weather is nice, he also paints outside under an umbrella. This place of work is very inspiring: silence, nature, fresh air, birds chirping and always one of the five cats nearby.
The gallery owner enjoys this time because for the first time he is not dependent on the opening hours of a gallery. That means sleeping longer or going to bed later. For Frank, the current time means to use the day productively without time pressure, without looking at the clock.
In addition, Frank has never spent so much time in front of the computer. For example, he also uses the time to maintain his homepage.
The crisis as an opportunity
Frank and Laura are by no means people who stick their heads in the sand and just whine. It hits Galeria Frank Krüger extremely hard, but it motivates to learn from the situation, to develop new business branches or to let them grow. On the one hand the crisis is a standstill, on the other hand it is also a challenge that brings potential.
Frank and Laura come up with new ideas to get people interested in art online and, of course, to encourage them to buy an art print. Yes, they sparkle with ideas. They are in regular contact with customers via various online platforms, set up virtual raffles or offer great deals on specific works of art.
The goal is definitely to survive. Under no circumstances should one of the galleries be permanently closed. Frank and Laura are a strong team. They are very motivated, give each other a lot of strength and are happy to implement the many new ideas.
