There’s always something going on in the art world. Every Sunday, Agora starts the new week by looking back at what happened the week before. Here are our top art news stories from May 15th – May 21st, 2016.

Source: artnetnews

This week a number of stolen paintings were discovered in Ukraine, Christie’s is facing a number of lawsuits for damage done to lots during Hurricane Sandy, and we get a peek at Steve Martin’s art collection.

Top Art News Stories

Sainsbury’s Sparks Furious Backlash Over Call for Artist to Decorate Store for Free

UK supermarket chain Sainsbury’s has been attacked on social media following its announcement for an artist to decorate their staff canteen, free of charge. The company enjoys an annual revenue of £26 billion, which makes the announcement even harder to swallow. The only incentive Sainsbury’s offered was recognition for the artist’s work. They have removed the ad following the complaints on social media. Full Story Here →

Stolen Paintings Found in Ukraine

A number of paintings that were stolen from a museum in Verona have been recovered from Ukraine. The paintings were stolen just over 6 months ago by armed robbers who tied up the museum staff. Seventeen paintings, which were buried under leaves near the Moldovan border, were recovered by Ukrainian Border Guards. The paintings are set to be returned to Italy. Full Story Here →

Source: NY Times

A Look Inside the Art Collection of Steve Martin

Although not widely reported, Steve Martin is an avid collector of art, having bought his first painting at the young age of 21. His collection includes 20th-century masters as well as a number of obscure, not-so-well-known artists. He has also held a number of curating roles over the last few years. Click here to view his collection.

John Lavery Paintings Up for Auction After 90 Years in a Private Collection

The painting ‘Mrs Osler’ by John Lavery is up for auction at Sotheby’s after being housed in a private collection for the past 90 years. It has been valued at $500,000 and is predicted to be a popular lot. Lavery is one of the most collected Irish artists, with his works often selling for over their high estimates. The oil on canvas painting has only been exhibited once before in London and has not been seen in a public setting since. Full Story Here →

Source: Sotheby’s

Christie’s Facing $23M Lawsuit After Hurricane Sandy

Christie’s is still facing a $23 million lawsuit for damaged artwork, four years after Hurricane Sandy flooded their Brooklyn warehouse. It is being argued that Christie’s is guilty of gross negligence by failing to ensure that the art was stored safely. The lawsuits are being brought by insurance companies who have had to pay the artists for the damaged works. Chrisie’s will appeal any decision to grant the insurance companies damages. Full Story Here →

These are just some of the many news stories that caught our eye this past week. For more stories as-they-happen, be sure to also follow our Facebook and Twitter. You can also sign up for our newsletter for news about Agora Gallery, our exhibitions, and our artists!

We love to hear from you. Tell us about the art and news that you’ve seen online or in person this week!