I don't see a issue with buying art that you like no matter where it came from. Some of the most well know paintings we just hanging in someone's bedroom, etc. at one time as decor.

As long as you like it and are willing to pay the price it sells for, what's the difference.

Purchase art from wherever it inspires you.

No matter the setting, if it speaks to you, purchase it. Obviously we all work within our own budget, however art can be equally moving weather it is 5 dollars or 5,000 dollars, hung on a piece of grid wall on the street or on a gallery wall. I think it's fine they are giving the opportunity to people to show their work, as well as you the opportunity to be exposed to different artists. Sound fair to me.

If you love it, the origin should not matter.

PS I know many street vendors/ artists personally, and what they create may sometimes be inexpensive, but I would not describe it as cheap. I have traded and purchased many items (ceramics, glasswork, paintings, textiles, you name it) all of which are of impeccable craftsmanship, unique, and quite beautiful.

My mom (an art teacher) and I had a similar discussion about having art shows in a laundromat. She thought it was debasing... I think it's a way to reach a wider audience, and it's a good opportunity for the artists.

OK so I kind of answered that question backward. Now I'll answer it sideways. If gyms around here had art galleries, I might be in better shape, even if I never bought anything.

$300-$1000 is not expensive, it's definitely at the lower end for original work.

I think it's a great way for artists to reach people they otherwise might not. I bought a painting off the wall from a showing at a noodle shop. You can be inspired by art anywhere and if it moves you and you love it I don't think it matters where it was when you saw it - a restaurant, a gym, a laundromat - wherever.

My climbing gym has had art for sale for years. It's usually travel or nature photography, so it fits the theme of the gym and the interests of the gym members. Plus, the artists are usually climbers themselves, so there's a sense of community (especially when it's someone I know!).

as an artist, i have in the past put my stuff up anywhere that would have it.

doesnt seem weird at all to me.

good for your gym: they're supporting local artists and giving them exposure that is hard to come by. I'd love to know what kind of agreement they have with the artists. some businesses won't take any of the profits, (whereas galleries often take 60% or more), just so they can have free decoration.

this also has the broader impact of making art seem more accesible. many people still find art intimidating and think of it only in a snobby gallery context. this shows that art can and should be a part of everyday life.

Agreed. $300 - $1000 is not expensive for original work.
You buy chairs for $300 - $1000, right?

Also an artist:

It's not that it's debasing or "low" to hang art in a gym or a laundromat, but I doubt it does much good for an artist. How likely are buyers to even pay attention to what they see there? People aren't in the right mindset. Sure, buy your art from wherever you find it, but I wouldn't mess with hanging it there.

if it's good, and i can afford it, i'll buy art by anybody from anywhere