Whether due to a move and need for temporary storage, lack of display space or change in decorating, or simply a burgeoning collection of pieces, it is not uncommon for art collectors to develop the need to store art from time to time. Due to the delicate nature of fine art and its intrinsic value, it is important to take steps to protect pieces from risk of damage or destruction.
Read more

Now that you have found the “perfect” piece, one that really inspires you, it is time to display it. There are several steps you should take to hang fine art safely, with the correct tools and hardware, and in an optimal location- both for protecting the art and for aesthetic purposes. Now, choosing a location is a bit based on personal choice, as there is no mathematical equation (although there are some guidelines to help). For those who may need to store artwork for a while, there are some suggestions to assist in this endeavor as well. Let’s delve into the process of hanging your fine art!

Read more

Art collecting is a balance between aesthetics and investment. Although personal style is just that – personal – valuation of artwork is a more analytical way of thinking. There are several reasons one would need an art appraiser to complete an appraisal for artwork, including selling a piece of art, valuing one’s financial status, inheriting a piece of art and contemplating the sale thereof, and obtaining insurance coverage for the artwork in question. Since the art business is unregulated, one could sell a piece of art for any price, or even state that they are an artist, and nothing can be said to refute this (other than comments on the lack of artistic ability!) Transactions between private parties can be fraught with ambiguities, and either party can walk away having been taken advantage of. There is a system for appraising art, and knowing more about it will not only make the process smoother, but will give you skills to do some of your own basic appraising.

Read more

To the untrained “eye,” one may believe that art galleries and museums are one and the same. However, this is far from the truth, although there is a growing gray area between the two in the art world. They both focus on the exhibition of art, in open spaces where there are few distractions so the viewing public can focus on the aesthetic qualities of the exhibits. This is often where the similarities end. Let’s break down some of the major differences between the two, and discuss where there are commonalities.

Read more