This year's Armory Show was a subdued affair, with the financial sector trade show below it being the life of the party in comparison. It was much the same old mix of unremarkable works that explore identity and memory, with only a few standout pieces – most of which were in the Focus section, curated by the impressive María Elena Ortiz. People were trading as usual, but the fair felt notably quiet and gloomy, almost as if it was mocking the financial sector's robust energy.

Beyond the art, the real highlight was the financial sector trade show on the floor below, which seemed to be in full swing. The stark contrast was so palpable that it highlighted the fair's lacklustre atmosphere even more. It got us thinking: maybe artworks are better left in hotel lobbies where they can blend in with the decor instead of competing with more vibrant displays.

The fair's atmosphere was so lackadaisical that it made one wonder if the art world had caught a case of the creative blues. With the financial sector doing its usual bustling, it was almost as if the fair was a ghost town, or at least a ghost town with a few memorable exceptions. The Focus section, curated by María Elena Ortiz, was a breath of fresh air, but it couldn't save the overall vibe of the event.

Despite the fair's lack of sparkle, the usual dealers and collectors were still out in force, wheeling and dealing as if nothing was amiss. But it was hard not to wonder if the art world was in need of a boost of creativity and excitement. For now, the financial sector seems to be the more vibrant part of the event, with its bustling activity and robust energy.

So, if you're in the market for a financial trade-off, the floor below is where you'll find the real action. But for the art, perhaps the hotel lobby is where it should stay – a bit more at home and a whole lot less quiet.