Art Advising
If you require assistance in purchasing art, rest assured that I am well-equipped to guide you. With over four decades of experience and an extensive network of contacts, including 20 years as a gallery director and owner, as well as serving as the President of the NYC branch of ArtTable, I possess a wealth of valuable insights that I can offer you.
My services are charged on an hourly consulting fee basis, and I am also capable of acting as an intermediary to provide you with a "dealer's discount" that I share with you, effectively reducing your expenses. As I work solely for you and not for the gallery or artist, I have no incentive to pressure you into buying any specific piece or the most expensive one.
My ultimate objective is to educate you and provide unwavering support in making informed decisions that are based on the art's ability to provide long-lasting pleasure at a fair and reasonable price.
Below, you will find the elements of art advising to gain insight into the process and understand how I can assist you.
Billing
Hourly at $250 per hour, oftentimes offset by extending my “dealer discount” to the client.
Purchase of Art
It starts with a consultation to explore your taste and budget and whether you are buying art as an individual or a corporation, a new or experienced collector, and a one-time purchase or as part of a collection. Together, we determine the proper process for exploring and decision-making. This might be a survey of the art online to determine where your taste leads, guided visits to selected galleries and studios, or guidance on making those visits on your own.
Collection Management
You may want more services than art acquisition alone. I can help with this mainly through referrals to professionals I have confidence in based on decades of working together.
Framing
Showing off the art to the best advantage requires tasteful decision-making about frames. Proper framing is critical for works on paper due to the degradation caused by light. I usually work with CityFrame.
Shipping
It’s one thing if you pick up the art yourself. But if not, regular shippers can’t take the proper precautions. I usually work with either Atelier 4 or Fine Art Services & Transport.
Installation
You may need help with installation if the piece is heavy or uniquely shaped. I can refer you to an experienced freelance installer who can ensure the work is safely mounted and situated.
Cataloging
If you are intentionally or ad hoc creating a collection, then down the road, this is a significant investment – for gifting, insurance, legacies, appraisals, resales, etc. I work exclusively with ArtFile.
Photography
Professional photographs are necessary to sell your art. I use two photographers – one who is less expensive and another who achieves the specific standards dealers and auction houses call for.
Appraisal
Someday, you may need an appraisal. I rely on Marion Art and Evie Joselow, who are reputable, reliable, reasonably priced, and certified.
Resales
Auction houses are an option, but the work has been exposed as non-sellable if you don’t get the price you want. Instead, I can advise on a consultant basis and help network with the appropriate dealers.
Conservation
Stuff happens—inquisitive children, water damage, improper framing for sunlight, house cleaning accidents, and most commonly, the artist used paint or material that deteriorates or changes. Each media needs a specialized technique to repair it to its original glory. I work with ceramic, paper, photography, painting, and sculpture specialists – too many to highlight here.