How I approach collecting art
Process
I work closely with my clients to identify and secure the best pieces to fit their taste, interests, budget, and collecting goals. My approach is tailored to each client’s schedule and level of desire for a hands-on experience. Bidding at auction in person and visiting art fairs and galleries is fun and exciting. Alternatively, I can provide a turn-key experience, delivering a polished final product.
As an independent art advisor, I offer unbiased guidance, and I am transparent in my billing practices. I only represent my clients — never accepting undisclosed fees from galleries or auction houses — and I do not hold inventory. Regardless of professional discounts, I never markup framing or installation.
Auction Expertise
I offer exceptional insight for smart bidding at auction. My deep knowledge of the auction process, ability to analyze markets, and extensive relationships within the auction world allow me to present my clients with unparalleled advice on auction purchases. I am engaged in an ongoing review of global auction offerings for rare, hard-to-find, and undervalued work.
There are opportunities at auction to buy work - below gallery prices - that has demonstrated and sustained value. And, for the freshest Contemporary pieces, auctions provide access to material that might be difficult to attain on the primary market. Bidding at auction is a thrill, and I guide my clients through every step of what can be a complicated and opaque process.
Access
I have spent twenty-five years in the art world, developing a reputation and relationships that allow me to attain highly sought after works of art for my collectors on both the primary and secondary markets — and across history from Greek antiquity to barely-dry canvases. I successfully navigate gallery waitlists, and I can reach into my network to find off-market pieces privately.
Connoisseurship
Your taste and interests will shape your collection, but no matter what type of art you pursue, some pieces are better than others. I use my art historical training and curatorial eye to select the highest quality piece by each artist. I also know what to look for and the right questions to ask concerning condition and provenance to build meticulous collections with sustained value.
Sales
I have an outstanding record with art sales for collectors and estates, and I aggressively negotiate terms with both auction houses and dealers. Artists sold include Fernando Botero, George Condo, Wilfredo Lam, Diego Rivera, and Rufino Tamayo.
Management
It is essential to me that my clients have a seamless, efficient, and cost-effective post-sale experience. I pride myself on attention to detail, and I work with the leading art-world experts on framing, shipping, installation, insurance, storage, and conservation. I also do estate projects, and I work with a select clientele on retainer as a collection manager. Please find a more complete list of the services I offer here.