Ep. 8: Freezing Time: Erik Sommer on Decay, Discipline, and Making Art Without Rules

In this episode of Primary Market Podcast, artist Erik Sommer traces his path from playing drums in Duluth, Minnesota to becoming a New York–based painter, sculptor, and curator whose work explores impermanence, decay, and control over time. Sommer discusses his unconventional art education—shaped more by museums, studios, and the city itself than formal training—along with his early experiments using cement, found materials, and large-scale installations.The conversation moves through his MFA years, life as a working artist and librarian in East Harlem, early gallery representation, and the risks and rewards of saying no to the wrong opportunities. Sommer also reflects on curating through his project space Mott Projects, the changing art market, Instagram as both archive and tool, and how artists can build careers without compromising their values. Grounded, thoughtful, and deeply reflective, the episode closes with Sommer’s philosophy on patience, authenticity, and why making art—quietly, steadily, and honestly—still matters. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit primarymarket.substack.com