Art advice

Before acquiring a work of art, starting a collection, or simply investing in art , you may want some advice. Defining your needs isn't always easy, and art advice would be invaluable. Art advice is best left to professionals.

The advisor's goal is to understand your desire, then to offer you solutions adapted to your constraints, whether spatial or financial, taking into account your preferences.

An Art Advisor can accompany you to art events, art fairs, artist workshops, exhibitions, etc.

Its role is to familiarize you with the art world so that you are able to understand the aesthetic rules, but also the issues of the market.

You will then be better able to select the works that reflect your desire and suit you.

 

Hans Hartung 1953 Untilited - Institute of Chicago

Expertise

Works of art are considered by many specialists as a safe haven investment, with the value of a Van Gogh often being more stable than a currency.

Expertise in art requires knowledge and a discerning eye for artistic production.

How to choose the artists and the works? That is the challenge of good expertise.

You can entrust a knowledgeable person with the task of buying on your behalf, but in art, the buyer's perspective matters a great deal. A work of art is like an encounter with a real person, with their charm, character, and presence.

The advisor's objective is to provide the basics, references, and principles that will guide you in your choices.

In most countries, there is a Chamber of Expert Advisors in works of art.

Your advisor must adhere to a code of ethics. In particular, they must guarantee that each artwork presented to you is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, in order to ensure its origin and traceability.

 

 

Collection management

Advice can go beyond simply assisting with decision-making. It can also involve helping you manage your collection. No collection can be created without an inventory, whether in the form of a catalogue or well-organized photographic and administrative archives.

Man with a pipe - Pablo Picasso - Institute of chicago

Investment in art

Buying a work of art is always an investment. Whether aesthetic or financial, it adds value to your life. Acquiring a work of art can be a worthwhile investment. Sales continue to grow, and the future looks promising.

The art market is uncorrelated with stock market values. So far, it has withstood crises and is even becoming a safe haven. It is therefore natural that it attracts increasing amounts of capital.

Investing in art can only be understood as a long-term strategy to potentially achieve significant returns. Indeed, the price of artworks is volatile, fluctuating according to the artists' careers. Furthermore, time and portfolio diversification are necessary to see real positive results.

Art purchases are now part of a robust and rapidly growing international market. The art market differs from the economic and stock markets; it operates according to its own rules. For many years, its capacity for self-regulation has been evident. Sometimes, the returns on investment can be remarkable.

Some countries, including France, have particularly attractive tax systems in this area.

It is true that speculation on particular artists often makes this market volatile, even opaque. However, the experience of serious investors shows that it is beneficial in the long run.

An artist's reputation is not built in a day! This reputation is established on various criteria, including media coverage, private or public promotion, the integration of works into museums or foundations, etc.

The art consultant must incorporate all these elements into their thinking.

 

    • He needs to be aware of the various private or public events, such as exhibitions, auctions, and retrospectives of the artists he follows.

    • He must identify the most relevant works whose added value is advantageous.

    • He must anticipate changes in value in order to propose new deals and opportunities.

    • Finally, the advisor must be able to negotiate the best possible transaction on your behalf.

 

 

In practice

 

    • To decipher your desires and expectations regarding art, seeking guidance from an advisor is reassuring. How do you identify your tastes and vision of art? This will be the first task of an Art Advisor.

    • The analysis of the purpose of an acquisition comes next (investment, starting or strengthening a collection, heritage, etc.).

    • Once your advisor has clearly identified your needs, they will begin searching for the desired artwork. Their network and ability to gather information are extremely important. Based on current market prices, they will advise you on the suitability of a purchase.

    • Once the purchase is made, your advisor should ensure the smooth transport of the artwork.

    • He can also help you choose a beautiful frame and ensure its installation. He is also available to advise you on installation and lighting.

    • His function does not stop there, as he can also be an excellent source of advice to guide you towards exhibitions, Art Fairs or retrospectives.

    • If you have a collection, the art advisor will always be on the lookout to find the piece that may interest you.

 

 

In summary, remember that your art advisor is first and foremost a passionate individual who thrives on art.

What he can happily share with you is a way of life, the love of art as a meaning to life.