\n<\/p>\n
Like Ms Kettle, Singapore-based artist Zhang Fuming was also caught off guard. He found out about the liquidation on Friday through CNA\u2019s queries.<\/p>\n
He has two pieces held by Art Works that are valued at around S$10,000.<\/p>\n
Mr Zhang said there were earlier hints of trouble when, two weeks ago, the gallery asked him to collect his work \u2014 which had been displayed since July \u2014 saying it needed to \u201cmake space\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut they didn\u2019t hint at liquidation,\u201d said the 36-year-old.<\/p>\n
He has since tried contacting staff about the liquidation, and they gave him an update on Monday that he can collect his pieces.<\/p>\n
The group of Art Works employees expressed regret for the fallout.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are deeply sorry for the disruption and anxiety the liquidation has caused,\u201d said the group.<\/p>\n
\u201cDecisions about the company\u2019s finances and governance were the responsibility of the directors, and we expect their full cooperation with the provisional liquidators in the interests of clients, artists, employees and other creditors.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite the possible financial blow, the artists who spoke to CNA said they still appreciated the opportunities they had working with Art Works.<\/p>\n
Ms Kettle said she is \u201cgenuinely grateful\u201d for the years she spent collaborating with the gallery.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile this ending has been unexpected, I\u2019m choosing to focus on what it has taught me and the new opportunities ahead,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Echoing her sentiments, Mr Zhang said he understands that financial difficulties can arise in the industry.<\/p>\n
\u201cI like to imagine everyone has their struggles, and there will be some due process for everything to be resolved at the end of the day,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
CNA has contacted Art Works\u2019 chief operations officer Chris Hallewell and global fine art director Cassi Young. Both did not respond to messages or calls.<\/p>\n
It has also reached out to Forvis Mazars, but were told they were \u201cunable to comment on specific client matters\u201d.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n