I saw a lot of people who did not look wealthy to me, plus how much does it really cost to come visit NYC. I think it's in the reach of most Americans.
The idea of something without utility that is also costly is offensive to most people. They view it as either a scam or a waste of money. The idea of spending $10,000 on a piece of art for themselves -- a relatively modest sum -- is offensive to most people, unless that piece of art increases in value.
They spent 10 times the amount of money on the inaguration which lasted only a few hours. Were you or most Americans offended by that also? I would bet that the Freeper who bought the Christo sketch in the thread above knows how much his sketch has appreciated in value. That being said, who ever said most art that you can buy costs $10,000?
A) Personally, I like Cristo's stuff. It redefines space in surprising ways. And I like the Gates.
B)I wasn't offended by the festivities in DC. People get to spend their money the way that they choose. Actually, I think the money spent was relatively modest.
C)I never said that "most art" is availble for $10,000. However, there is a great deal of art -- very good stuff --available in the $5,000 to $10,000 range. As a small time collector, I know this for a fact.