Yearly Archives - 2016

The holiday season is winding down, with very little time remaining until the first day of 2017 officially closes out this wonderful time. However, it doesn’t mean that its magic ends with the last chime of midnight. After all, winter holidays are the most popular time for all types of art installation, from large art pieces in the streets to hotel and office art. It is no wonder that artists from all over the world use this perfect opportunity to show their mastery, turning ordinary Christmas trees into true masterpieces of contemporary art. See for yourself!

1. Upside-Down Christmas Tree for Tate Britain, London

Tate Britain has marked the beginning of this year’s holiday season with a festive commission in the form of an eye-catching upside-down Christmas tree hanging from the glass ceiling, with exposed roots highlighted with gold leaf. This unique art installation that focuses on the tree’s natural shape, smell, texture, color, and other qualities was created by the talented Iranian-born artist Shirazeh Houshiary.

2. Frozen Tree in King’s Cross, London

Have you ever seen a Christmas tree entrapped in a block of ice? This year, you have an excellent opportunity to enjoy it at Granary Square in King’s Cross, London. The 23-foot tall art installation was created by the British artist and designer Alex Chinneck, a true master of large sculptures and modern outdoor art. This amazing art installation titled “Fighting fire with ice cream” represents a giant Christmas tree seemingly frozen within a bespoke ‘ice cube’ made of transparent wax and resin.

3. Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche, New York

Another beautiful Christmas tree can be found in one of the world’s largest and finest museums, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. This festive art installation that combines the 20-foot blue spruce with 18th-century Neapolitan crèche is already a longstanding holiday tradition the Met continues every year. Adorned with charming cherubs, angels, animals, and other figures and background pieces, the magnificently lit museum’s exhibit installation creates a dramatic setting for the Nativity.

4. Charity Tree, Budapest

Budapest also has an unusual Christmas tree tradition thanks to the international educational platform in design and architecture Hello Wood. Although this organization is famous for many festive large art pieces, this particular outdoor sculpture titled the “Charity Tree” is of particular importance. The fact is that this giant art installation is made of firewood, all pieces of which are donated to families in need after the outdoor sculpture is dismantled in January.

5. Claridge’s Christmas Tree Installation, London

This fantastic art installation is probably the most discussed and argued one. Created by the influential industrial designer Marc Newson, Apple’s chief design officer Sir Jony Ive, and the British set designer Michael Howells for the London hotel Claridge’s lobby, the interactive forest art installation is designed to play with the relationship between the future and the tradition. Such an unusual mix of natural green pines and modern technologies is definitely worth seeing.

Happy New Year!

2017 is nearly upon us, so it’s time to reevaluate your life choices. Most likely, you will find some new things you want to do. From hitting the gym and visiting all new fine art openings to revitalizing the family business and finally insuring that valuable collection of antique figurines, we all dream of new opportunities, and New Year’s resolutions are just perfect for that. However, if you want to stick to them, start with small goals and changes. This is especially useful for artists and art business professionals. Hopefully, these tips will come in handy.

1. Create a list of desired achievements.

Whether you are an art business professional or an aspiring artist, think about what you would like to achieve next year. For example, how many Facebook/Instagram/Twitter followers would you like to have? How many art openings would you like to take part in? How many paintings would you like to create per month? Try to think about all business elements and set deadlines if possible.

2. Stop selling yourself short.

If you are an artist, this is the first and most important resolution to make and keep. No matter whether it comes to oil paintings, large sculptures, art installations, or anything in between, you should be confident in your art, believe in what you are creating, and always positively talk about it. Only in such a case, you will be able to sell it for what it is worth.

3. Get out of your comfort zone and try something different.

If you are lacking new ideas or stuck with your current project, it’s high time to try something different. New art supplies, forms, unusual places, a workshop you have always wanted to attend – whatever you choose, try it! Even if you don’t like it or even hate it – don’t think, just do. Who knows, maybe it is exactly what you need to get that brainwave you have been waiting for.

4. Pay attention to time and inventory management.

Proper time management is crucial for any business. For example, you can start with time-wasting tasks you do instead of making art and minimize them as much as possible. The same applies to inventory management. Whether you are an artist, a fine art collector, or an art dealer, you need to regularly carry out a comprehensive inventory of all your art pieces and other possessions.

5. Find a reliable art shipping company.

If you are somehow connected to the art business, having a reliable art shipping company at your fingertips is always a smart idea. Here is where we can help you with ease. Specializing in shipping art of any size and kind, Fine Art Shippers offers professional services at affordable prices. Whether you need help with local or international transportation, packing and crating, art storing, or anything else, do not hesitate to contact us. We are always at your disposal!

Happy Holidays!

New York museums, fine art galleries, and public spaces have always been home to some of the most inspiring and creative art in the world. Local and international artists show their masterpieces, museums put on display their valuable art collections, large art pieces appear in the streets – there is always something to enjoy in New York, especially during holidays. After all, seeing famous paintings or amazing large sculptures up close can elicit such emotions that are impossible to be named intelligibly. So if you still don’t know what to visit these holidays, here is our list of New York art shows and exhibitions you don’t want to miss!

 “A New Dawn” by Cuban artists

Cuban art is an exceptionally diverse cultural blend of North American, European, South American, and African elements. Representing a unique combination of many modern and contemporary art genres, it perfectly reflects the diverse demographic makeup of the island, and “A New Dawn” exhibition is another proof of that. This remarkable collection of Cuban art features works by a select group of renowned artists, including Liang Dominguez Fong, Juan Carlos Anzardo, and Carmen Mir Adorna. All paintings are available for sale.

Where: Godel & Co. Fine Art

When: until January 12, 2017

“Burning all illusion” by Samuel Levi Jones

“Burning all illusion” is Samuel Levi Jones’s first solo exhibition of paintings with Galerie Lelong. However, these paintings are not actually paintings. Each piece represents weaved together vintage encyclopedias, old law books, and deconstructed reference books of various themes and colors that have been turned into modern wall art to show the challenging historical and contemporary power structures. This small exhibition of unusual abstract art paintings is definitely worthy of a visit. Who knows, maybe you will find there something special for your home!

Where: Galerie Lelong – New York

When: until January 28, 2017

“Get The Picture” by Harry Benson

If you are fond of photography, “Get The Picture” exhibition is right for you. Harry Benson is one of the most famous contemporary photographers, whose unique pictures appeared in such world-known publications as The New Yorker, People, Vanity Fair, and Life. He traveled with The Beatles, witnessed the assassination of Robert Kennedy, was in Michael Jackson’s bedroom, and saw Elizabeth Taylor after her brain surgery. This talented Scottish photographer has numerous historical pictures, many of which are now on display at the Staley-Wise Gallery.

Where: Staley-Wise Gallery

When: until January 28, 2017

“Rising” by Sophie Ryder

“Rising” is a solo exhibition of small and large sculptures by Sophie Ryder, one of the leading contemporary artists working in Britain today. It is the whole world of animals, mystical creatures, and tender hybrid beings made from steel wire, bronze, wet plaster, stone, enamel, and other materials. Moreover, this serious and at the same time playful contemporary art exhibition also includes artist’s charcoal, acrylic, and ink drawings on paper. Each piece is available for sale.

Where: Waterhouse & Dodd

When: until January 28, 2017

Happy Holidays!

The holiday season is already here! This wonderful yet crazy time is always accompanied by a long to-do list. However, among all the important things on it, buying gifts is a task that many people have trouble with. The fact is that buying gifts is art in itself and, therefore, requires a different approach, especially when it comes to choosing paintings, modern home decor, antique statues, or other fine art pieces. So, how to give art as a gift? What to choose? If you still don’t know it, here are some useful tips that may come in handy.

1. Consider the preferences of the recipient.

No matter how much you like modern abstract art or acrylic paintings, your recipient might not. So the first thing to do is to make a list of their preferences, not yours. Since there is a great variety of fine art and antique pieces for sale, you are guaranteed to find something to their liking.

2. Opt for paintings, not portraits.

The trick is that not all people are ready to hang a life-size portrait of themselves on the wall. So, it’s always better to choose any other oil or watercolor painting instead of a full-color portrait. Think about modern wall art. Chances are that you will find something to give as a gift.

3. Frame the painting.

Whatever painting you choose, always frame it before giving it to someone. Choosing elegant art frames can elevate the aesthetic appeal of the paintings tenfold. These refined borders can provide a polished finish to the artwork, enhancing its presentation and perceived value. Besides, the truth is that even the most beautiful paintings can be stored in the attic for years simply because they are not framed. People just forget to go out and frame them.

4. Choose something unique.

To buy something that you have repeatedly seen in private homes or public spaces is a bad idea. Always opt for a unique fine art piece or, at least, something you haven’t seen before. Try to find a local artist or visit your local gallery for a better result.

5. Think about a group of artworks.

Sometimes, to give a group of artworks is better than to give a single piece. This is especially true for private homes without any specific style. For example, if you are not sure that this antique statue will fit in the recipient’s home, think about several small modern paintings of the same size that work well as a group and look natural almost anywhere.

6. Consider home decor, shapes, and colors.

If the recipient’s home is already decorated in a particular style, make sure the chosen gift will fit in it. Consider home decor, shapes, materials, wall colors, and other details before buying artwork. Your primary goal is to match the already existing artistic style.

7. Properly wrap a gift.

Gift wrapping is important. It’s like a final flourish that completes a good gift, so ensure the chosen artwork is properly wrapped. What if you need to send it to another city or even country? No problem! Just contact Fine Art Shippers, and we will do it for you in the best possible way.

Happy Holidays!

Whether you are a lucky owner of a valuable collection of modern paintings or have a set of antique books, you need to properly care for all your possessions. Unfortunately, sometimes art collectors simply forget that old books can be much more fragile than other fine art pieces and, therefore, always require special care. Improper handling and transportation, as well as excessive sunlight, heat, and moisture, can easily damage antique books and prints. Thereby, if you want to ensure your precious collection is safe and protected from all possible dangers, you have to maintain the right environment, store it in a special facility or properly equipped room, and use only professional art shipping and packing services. Only in such a case, your collection of antique books will remain in its pristine condition for years to come. Here are several useful tips to consider:

1. Protective storage measures

Acid-free protective covers are a must-have for storing antique books. Opt for only archival-grade products intended to protect fine art pieces. Moreover, when choosing a bookcase for your collection, keep in mind that it should have a closing glass door. It is always better to store antique books on glass shelves rather than on wooden ones. Baked enamel and metal shelves are also acceptable.

2. Ideal environment

Creating an ideal and stable environment is crucial for protecting antique books in private homes. Since any reputable art storage facility is equipped with a modern climate control system, you also need to keep temperature and moisture levels at a constant level. For example, the optimum level for humidity is between 40% and 60%, and the ideal temperature is 60°F to 65°F.

3. Lighting

Keep antique books away from all substantial sources of light. Direct sunlight and fluorescent lights are especially dangerous for old books and prints. If it is possible, use LED lights or, at least, install UV filters to minimize damage.

4. Art handling

Antique books require you to follow simple art handling rules:

• always have your hands clean or wear gloves;
• dust each item frequently;
• don’t use glue or any type of adhesive tape on books;
• never tug at the top of the spine to remove the book from the shelf; instead, grab it from the middle along the spine;
• don’t use acidic inserts, “dog ear” folding, or paper clips to bookmark pages;
• always keep drink and food away;
• never leave a book open.

5. Storage position

To store antique books on the shelf in the right position is another important thing to consider. Thus, it is better to store large books horizontally while smaller items can be placed upright at a 90-degree angle. Besides, you can store similar-sized books together so that they could support each other on the shelf.

These simple tips can prolong the life and the usability of antique books, so always apply them to protect your collection. If you need any assistance with safe handling and couriering, packing, or transportation of your precious possessions, do not hesitate to contact Fine Art Shippers. We are always here to help!

From art shows at the most famous museums like the Museum of Modern Art and the Met to art openings at the world-known galleries, the New York art scene has always been rich and welcoming. Music and publishing, architecture, outdoor sculpture, fine art, film and video, performing arts, design – here you can find everything you want. Certainly, you don’t need to visit every art installation or gallery opening, but there are always several must-visit events you should attend while in New York. So check out our suggestions for the most significant art shows and exhibitions you don’t want to miss next week!

“A mountain made to look like a person holding a knife” by Theo Triantafyllidis

“A mountain made to look like a person holding a knife” exhibition by the Greek artist Theo Triantafyllidis is a wonderful example of contemporary art that perfectly combines computer graphics with fine art history. Inspired by the tradition of still life paintings, this unusual exhibition includes fabric renderings, 3D printed sculptures, and absolutely unique live simulation screen works based on the computer’s archiving algorithm.

Where: Sargent’s Daughters, Downtown

When: until December 18, 2016

“A Man Full of Trouble” by Alex Da Corte

This amazing art installation by the American rising star Alex Da Corte is a place where present, past, modernity, and memories reconstitute and aggregate. Inspired by Philadelphia’s history and culture, “A Man Full of Trouble” exhibition includes lots of interrelated large sculptures and other art pieces that combine some of the most iconic components from America’s colonial and post-Revolutionary periods with artist’s personal narratives of success, loss, and love.

Where: Maccarone New York, West Village

When: until December 17, 2016

“Catch As Catch Can” by Koenraad Dedobbeleer

The “Catch As Catch Can” exhibition by the Belgian artist Koenraad Dedobbeleer represents a post-minimalist, whimsical art installation built around the architecture of a cultured landscape. It includes a variety of small and large sculptures made of laminated wood, walnuts, stainless steel, concrete, canvas, rope, leather, painted metal, chrome-plated steel, spray plastic, and other materials and objects found by the artist. All come in simplified forms but with absolutely new ambitions.

Where: CLEARING, Williamsburg

When: until December 30, 2016

“The Obama Paintings” by Rob Pruitt

Since Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2009, a New York-based artist Rob Pruitt has created over 2000 paintings of the President using images drawn from the news. In fact, he has a painting for every day of Obama’s Presidency. Many of them are already on view, but the most interesting thing is that this impressive collection of contemporary art is still not complete. “The Obama Paintings” is expected to comprise 2,922 paintings.

Where: Gavin Brown’s Enterprise

When: until December 18, 2016

Looking for a reliable art shipping company? Look no more, as you have already found it! At Fine Art Shippers, we have been shipping art for 20+ years and, therefore, know exactly how to do it right. Based in Midtown Manhattan in convenient proximity to the biggest airports and the largest port of New York and New Jersey, Fine Art Shippers offers both, local and international art shipping services. Moreover, our head office is located in the immediate vicinity of the most prominent New York auction houses (Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Philips, Bonham’s, Doyle Auction House, etc.) and just a block away from the Rockefeller Center, which makes us a favorable choice for many art collectors and art dealers from all over the world. We also work with museums, art galleries, antique centers, art shows, and artists who need to move their expositions across the country or internationally. Here are just some of the services we offer at Fine Art Shippers:

Art collection services

Whether it comes to shipping fragile items or a collection of valuable paintings, we are ready to help. At Fine Art Shippers, we provide art collectors with a whole range of artwork transportation and handling services, from packing and crating to international shipping and gallery installation. Moreover, we have all the necessary equipment for large sculptures and antique furniture moving, which means that our customers can rely on us with confidence for all their art handling and shipping needs.

Gallery services

We understand how timing and cost are important to gallery clients and, therefore, provide them with all the art shipping services needed for safe handling and couriering in the most cost-effective manner. Besides, our unique location allows us to have easy access to New York’s most prominent auction houses and galleries, which greatly speeds up the process of transportation. Furthermore, we are ready to work with everything from a single artwork to large art collections.

Museum exhibition services

At Fine Art Shippers, we deal not only with art collectors, auction houses, and galleries but also with many museums and traveling exhibitions, which requires much experience and endless attention to detail. We can provide our customers with a whole range of professional services, starting from international transportation of large art pieces to museum crates and museum insurance services. Moreover, we have secure warehouses in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Boston, Philadelphia, and other US cities, which can easily solve the problem of art collection storage between exhibitions.

In this way, regardless of your art shipping needs, Fine Art Shippers is always the right choice. Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. We are always at your disposal, no matter whether you want to ship a single artwork or a whole art collection.

Whether you want to send antique glassware to your customer or ship fine china to your new home, you always need assurance that all of the objects will arrive safe and sound. This is where proper packaging is crucial. Here are the most important steps to follow when shipping fragile items or packing dishes, glassware, and fine china:

1. Choose the right box.

Select a reliable double-walled box that allows packing no more than 4.5 kg (10 lbs). Such boxes are usually called dish barrels, dishsaver glass pack boxes, or simply dish packs. Most of them are eco-friendly and created specifically for shipping fragile items and antique glassware. Another thing to remember is that you need to keep the box size compact. When it comes to safe shipping, packing too many items in a single box is not a smart idea. The heavier the box is, the more chances your fine china will be damaged in transit.

2. Wrap each item separately.

Neatly wrap each item in bubble wrap or tissue paper. It is worth noting that sometimes people use newsprint for wrapping antique china they want to ship. However, it is not recommended for several reasons. First, the ink may rub off and stain the item. Second, newspapers are not a packing material eligible for insurance. Last, they don’t protect fragile objects during transportation. So don’t skimp on wrapping materials and packing supplies, as they can save your items from being damaged.

3. Fill the box with foam or peanuts.

Place several inches of packing peanuts or cushion foam on the bottom of your box before you add any wrapped items.

4. Place the items into the box.

You need to properly arrange the wrapped items in the box. For example, china plates should be placed on the edge with a layer of bubble wrap or cardboard between them. Make sure that the sides of each item are at least 1" (2.5 cm) away from the box edge. Further, when shipping fragile items, like teapots or sugar bowls, make sure they are packed separately. Moreover, remember that heavier objects should always be packed on the bottom, while lighter should be placed on top.

5. Fill in the empty space with packing peanuts or foam. 

Once you arrange the items in the box, fill in the empty space with more foam or packing peanuts. This will prevent them from moving around. Ensure the box is not overfilled and tape it with the packing tape. In case you want to use a shipping company, like FedEx, it’s better to put your package into another, larger box also filled with packing peanuts for more protection.

6. Label the box.

Label your box with “From” and “To” addresses, as well as with all necessary shipping labels, like “Fragile,” “Handle with care,” “Do not stack,” and so on. We also recommend you to write on the box its exact content.

If you are not sure you can properly pack antique glassware and fine china, you can always contact Fine Art Shippers for help. We offer professional packing and crating, art storage, and art shipping services for any need and budget. Call us now!

China’s most famous dissident artist Ai Weiwei is back in New York. Phillips wants to sell the vandalized Lichtenstein’s work for tens of millions of dollars. Alain Delon will put his art collection up for auction. Russian avant-garde paintings will be displayed at New York’s Museum of Modern Art. This is the most interesting fine art news from around the world! Stay with us to learn more!

Ai Weiwei’s art exhibitions in New York

On November 4, different New York galleries opened four art exhibitions of Ai Weiwei’s works at the same time, thus marking the artist’s big return after a five-year house arrest. The most impressive gallery installation is probably the “Laundromat” that is now exhibited at Deitch Projects in SoHo. It includes over 2,000 items (sweaters, pants, boots, sneakers, etc.) collected by Ai Weiwei on the Greek-Macedonian border during his visit to an abandoned refugee camp. Another exhibit installation titled “Roots and Branches” was opened at Lisson Gallery New York. It represents a collection of large sculptures that includes tree trunks and roots in cast iron set against the backdrop of the black and white wallpaper installation. The last two art openings can be found at Mary Boone’s two spaces, in Chelsea and Midtown. Both of them are also dedicated to the life of refugees.

Phillips is selling Lichtenstein’s painting after expert restoration

This fall, Phillips New York is making a big bet on Roy Lichtenstein’s paintings, one of which comes from the prestigious private art collection. The most interesting fact is that the auction house is going to sell the famous “Nudes in Mirror” that has undergone restoration after it was slashed by a 35-year-old mentally unstable woman in 2005. As a result, this beautiful piece of canvas art still has certain damage that is, however, almost invisible from the front. Despite this fact, the painting is estimated at $20 million. The sale will be held in New York on November 16.

Alain Delon’s art collection will go under the hammer at Christie’s

The French film star Alain Delon will put his art collection up for auction to mark the 100th anniversary of the death of Rembrandt Bugatti, an Italian artist famous for his bronze sculptures of wildlife subjects. The sale includes 17 pieces, 12 of which belong to the actor. One of the most prominent lots is the “Deux Grands Leopards” created in 1913. It is estimated at €500,000-700,000. Another highlight of the “Centenaire Bugatti” sale is the “Elephant d’Afrique et Trois Gazelles” created circa 1905. Its estimated price is €350,000-450,000. Both fine art pieces come from Delon’s art collection. The auction will be held in Paris on November 22.

“The Rise of the Russian Avant-Garde” in MoMA

New York’s Museum of Modern Art will open a very special exhibition on December 3. Titled “A Revolutionary Impulse: The Rise of the Russian Avant-Garde,” it is dedicated to Russian avant-garde artists who made a considerable contribution to the development of this wave of modern art. The exhibition will include paintings, photos, prints, sculptures, drawings, books, films, and other artworks by such famous artists as Vladimir Mayakovsky, Kazimir Malevich, El Lissitzky, Natalia Goncharova, Lyubov Popova, and Alexandra Exter. Do not miss your chance to see such an extraordinary art collection brought together in New York!

Professional art handling is almost impossible without donning a pair of gloves. Moreover, safe handling and couriering require special gloves that vary depending on what exactly you are going to handle. For example, to provide more protection to each particular object, art handlers may use cotton, powder-free nitrile, or even durable work gloves. After all, large sculptures, paintings, antique objects, and other fine art pieces are not equal. The same applies to the gloves and materials they are made from. So what are the most common types of gloves used for art handling? Let’s find this out!

Before we start, it is important to underline those gloves that should not be used for fine art handling. Yes, we are talking about rubber and latex gloves that are not intended for such delicate work due to chemically unstable materials used for their creation. The fact is that such materials may react with handled works of art and even damage them. So forget about these gloves, as well as about packing supplies made from similar materials.

Work gloves. Work gloves are a must-have in case you need to handle large art pieces. Therefore, when it comes to outdoor sculpture or heavy furniture moving, opt for rugged work gloves to improve handling. Make sure, they are clean and can be used even for slippery items.

Cotton gloves. White cotton gloves are probably the most common gloves used by art handlers throughout the globe. Thanks to their ability not to leave fingerprints on the artwork and the non-reactive characteristics of cotton, such gloves have become a classic in the world of safe handling and couriering. Moreover, white color is the best indicator of dirt, which shows that this pair has to be replaced right now. The only problem is that cotton gloves may wick up the sweat, hand oil, and other moisture away from the skin, which makes them suitable not for all art pieces.

Powder-free nitrile gloves. These gloves are the best choice for almost all works of fine art. While possessing the same non-reactive characteristics as cotton gloves, they don’t wick up moisture and shed lint on handled objects. Furthermore, they are very useful when it comes to the safe handling and couriering of smooth items. Powder-free nitrile gloves usually come in blue or purple color.

It is also worth noting that though gloves are an integral part of the art handling process, sometimes it is still better to handle artworks without them. Thus, bare hands are the safest choice in case you need to handle extremely fragile items or those that require maximum tactility and grip. However, ensure your hands are clean, dry, and oil-free first in order not to damage the handled object.

Therefore, before handling the artwork, you need to choose the right pair of gloves or to ensure you don’t need them. If you have any doubts, it’s better to consult professional art handlers who have extensive experience in this particular type of work. After all, no one wants their precious possessions to be damaged during transportation and handling!

You have spent many years accumulating antique and fine art pieces, but have you got a plan on how to protect your art collection from financial losses, damage, and natural disasters? Obviously, the first thing you should think about is the art insurance coverage. However, there are also several other important steps intended to keep your art collection healthy and safe. Consider the following time-tested tips from Fine Art Shippers that can help you protect your precious possessions!

Always have an emergency plan

To have a contingency plan for all occasions is a wise idea indeed. This simple step can greatly facilitate your task in case of an emergency. Therefore, if you don’t know what to do with your fine art pieces in a critical situation, we recommend you to hire an experienced professional able to create a comprehensive plan for your particular art collection. 

Find a secure art storage facility

To know where you can securely store valuable and antique artworks is crucial for any collector. After all, you should be assured that your art collection is safe and sound at all times. This is where a climate-controlled art storage facility with an active alarm system and a sophisticated security system is a must-have. Even if you have all the necessary conditions at home, make sure you also have a backup plan in case things don’t go your way. 

Order professional art hanging services

When it comes to valuable paintings, hiring an art hanger is much better than using a general contractor’s services. So if you want to reduce the chance of falling, ensure that this work is done by a true professional with extensive experience in art hanging. Only in such a case, your fine art objects will be hung correctly with the use of the proper hardware. 

Annually inspect art installation hardware

Don’t forget that such small yet important things as cleats, rings, and hooks deteriorate with age. This is especially true for picture hanging wire and other similar little fixtures hidden out of sight. That is why we recommend that you properly inspect all installation hardware each year or even more often depending on your art collection.

Get everything appraised

Even if you are not going to sell your antique or fine art pieces, you should still appraise each of them in order to keep your insurance coverage at the appropriate level. Moreover, considering the fact that the art market is now changing more rapidly than ever before, to regularly re-appraise valuable possessions is a good idea for all art collectors.

Keep an inventory

Make sure you know key data about each item from your art collection, including its condition and current location. After all, it is impossible to make well-informed decisions without knowing what exactly you have.

In this way, if you want to protect your antique and fine art pieces, start with the written above tips. Once you are armed with this knowledge, your art collection will be in a much more secure position.

Being a professional art handler means not only to be familiar with museum-quality standards, art handling principles, or methods of packing, lifting, and transportation – it means to be an artist and an engineer at the same time. After all, each piece of fine art is unique and, therefore, requires a special approach, training, and equipment. However, there is still a list of key rules followed by all expert art handlers. Here are just several of them that may come in handy in case you are interested in proper artwork transportation and handling.

1. Less handling is better.

This is the most important rule you should always follow. No matter whether it comes to large art pieces or small, fragile artworks – plan ahead your actions in order to avoid unnecessary rewrapping and extra handling. Otherwise, you increase the risk of damage.

2. Wear gloves.

Please note that different types of art require different material gloves. Depending on whether you handle paintings, large sculptures, or other fine art pieces, you should choose the right gloves for each type of art.

3. Use high-quality packing supplies.

When it comes to art packing, the wise choice of packing supplies is crucial. Therefore, use only high-quality supplies suitable for your particular artwork. Besides, when choosing wrapping materials, take into account the object’s size and shape, as well as the vehicle characteristics and conditions of art transportation.

4. Be careful and neat.

Your packaging should always look like it has been made by a professional. This simply means that if you want to make a favorable impression on your customers, art collectors, or dealers – tape, fold, cut, and label neatly and purposefully.

5. Always support the artwork from the bottom.

Even if the object has some protrusions (like arms, handles, lips, or rims), don’t lift from them, as they may be decorative or weak. Providing support from the object’s base is always a smart solution.

6. Carry only one object at a time.

No matter how small your artworks are, carry each of them separately. As for the large art pieces, think in advance how many art handlers you need to move, pack, and lift the object.

7. Consider the display orientation.

Before art moving, it’s better to consult professional art handlers regarding the artwork orientation in the truck body. Thus, pastels should be laid flat, antique bedroom furniture shouldn’t be inverted, and paintings should be placed upright. In general, art pieces are usually safest when they are moved in the display orientation.

Certainly, every rule has an exception. So if you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact Fine Art Shippers and ask for professional art handling help. Our friendly team is ready to provide you with any assistance you need. Whether it comes to local or international transportation, packing and crating, art installation, or art storage – we are always here at your disposal!

Artwork transportation and handling, as well as art packing and crating, require such precision and skill that these services are considered a fine art themselves. At Fine Art Shippers, we know this like no other! Being engaged in this business for 20+ years, we work with modern artists, private art collectors, galleries, and auction houses from all over the world. What’s more, we love what we do! Our team of expert art moving professionals, fine art handlers, crate makers, art installers, and art collection managers is ready to provide you with any type of services you need, no matter whether it comes to local or international shipping, art installing, packing and crating, safe handling and couriering, antique piano moving, or fine furniture storage services.

At Fine Art Shippers, we deal with:

- Artworks of any size - Museum art collections - Antique pieces and artifacts - Paintings of any value - Ceramics and porcelain - Precious objects - Large sculptures - Any type of art installation - Antique furniture - And other fine art pieces

Obviously, each artwork requires independent treatment that usually depends on its size, weight, and some other physical properties. This is especially important when it comes to the process of packing and crating. Therefore, we offer custom crating services for the most demanding customers and valuable artworks. At Fine Art Shippers, we hire only professional crate makers with extensive experience in engineering high-quality crates for shipping fragile items and large art pieces. This simply means that all of your precious possessions will be safe at any stage of the transportation process.

Types of custom crates you can order from Fine Art Shippers: 

1. Museum crate

Museum crates are the best possible custom crates that offer maximum protection for any artwork, from one-of-a-kind museum pieces and artifacts to most valuable paintings and large sculptures. Such crates are designed on an individual basis and may include additional travel frames or double crating, as well as water-resistant interior walls for the utmost protection.

2. Round-trip crate

Round-trip crates are designed with the use of museum-quality foam padding to be used multiple times. Each of them is built individually to fit a particular artwork precisely so that it could protect it for years.

3. Domestic one-way crate 

Domestic one-way custom crates represent cost-effective yet rather sturdy full-sided boxes usually made of plywood. However, they come without any skids or handles that makes such crates less convenient in use than round-trip ones.

4. Skeleton crate

Skeleton crates are another cost-effective solution for packaging artworks. Usually built for flat items, they represent simple slat crates. However, skeleton crates can be used for transportation of rather heavy objects weighing anything up to a couple of hundred pounds.

In addition to packing and crating services, we also offer art storage services that are crucial when you need to store your items before or after their transportation. At Fine Art Shippers, we can actually assist you with any issue related to moving, handling, and storing artworks. Just let us know about it, and we will be happy to help!

Sooner or later, many people come to a time in their lives when they need to get rid of all those things they don’t actually use, no matter whether it comes to antique living room furniture or the stuff kept in the garage. So how to clear out that clutter? The obvious answer is to sell all these unnecessary things that take up space in your home. However, once you decide to sell your collectible and antique pieces, you should find the best option for how to do it right. Here are some ideas for you to consider!

Before we start, please take into account that if you have truly valuable fine art and home decor pieces or antiques, it’s better to consult professional appraisers, art collectors, or even an international expert first. Otherwise, if you are sure that your possessions are not multi-million dollar modern or antique masterpieces, then consider the following methods to find the one that suits you best. Moreover, the right method can greatly facilitate the process of shipping and delivery.

1. Sell online

This is the most commonly used method indeed. You can set up your own website or choose among the existing options for selling online, from Etsy and Ruby Lane to eBay. The last one is definitely the most attractive due to its huge customer base. However, please note that while unusual and rare items still do well, the really common things can get lost in the sea of eBay offerings. Moreover, be ready to take returns, as well as to spend time writing listings, photographing, and processing orders for local and international shipments.

2. Sell on Craigslist

Although Craigslist is famous for scams, you still can benefit from this method. For example, if you have only one piece of antique dining room furniture, it can be a good selling option. All you need is to find a local purchaser (forget about out-of-town buyers!) who will come for this item personally. This means free shipping and no worry about timely delivery for you as a seller!

3. Organize a yard sale

Yes, this won’t bring you top dollar, but you will definitely clear out all that clutter kept in your garage. So if you want your space back, a yard sale is an option. However, if something is still left unsold after the sale, don’t bring it back into your home again! Consider another selling option or donate the leftovers to charity.

4. Sell to a fine art and antique dealer

If you have an art collection of paintings, rare antique or interior design pieces, or even several large sculptures for sale, find a reliable dealer to wholesale all of them at once. It will save much time and effort.

5. Start your own antique business

If you have lots of fine art and antique pieces and are interested in buying, selling, and trading, then it can be a great option for you. Certainly, it requires time and some work to do, but it can be exciting and fun at the same time. Moreover, you can combine your antique business with online selling for a better result.

No matter the option you choose, Fine Art Shippers are always ready to help you with packing and shipping your items. Besides, we also offer professional New York courier services, as well as a secure art storage facility to satisfy any need of our clients. Contact us for any help!

Do you collect anything when you travel? Most likely, you do, as souvenirs are the best reminders of unforgettable places you have visited, people you have met, and experiences you have had away from home. Almost every traveler has, at least, several fridge magnets, T-shirts, or figurines from different countries of the world in their collection. However, what if you want to acquire something more significant and valuable, like a modern outdoor sculpture, one of the famous paintings by a noted artist, or any other fine art piece? This task is not an easy one, especially if you are not familiar with some of the common pitfalls. So before you buy an artwork abroad, ensure you know exactly how to do it right. Take advantage of the following tips from Fine Art Shippers!

1. Know what you are looking for

While a small and relatively inexpensive work of art usually does not cause many problems in view of international transportation, except that you are not shipping fragile items or antique objects, purchasing valuable and large art pieces abroad still requires advance preparation. Therefore, if you want to make a sound investment, gather as much information about the artwork and the artist as you can before you leave home.

2. Consult an expert

When it comes to expensive, rare, and antique fine art pieces, don’t neglect the advice of experienced art collectors, professional appraisers, and independent experts. If you have a high-resolution digital photo of the artwork you want to purchase, consult serious people first. At least, it will give you the confidence that you are not buying a fake.

3. Take care of insurance coverage

Any valuable artwork is an investment and, therefore, has to be covered with art insurance, especially when you need to ship it internationally. So before going abroad, check your existing policies to find out whether you can purchase fine art pieces overseas and declare them after you return home. Furthermore, you can also call your credit card company and ask whether they offer any protection for artworks you charge. If not, make all necessary arrangements for art insurance in advance.

4. Find a reliable art shipping company

The best way to ensure your newly acquired fine art object is delivered in its pristine condition is to hire a professional art shipping company. Although the most prominent galleries usually handle the customs process and international transportation themselves, sometimes you still need to arrange the shipping on your own. So it’s better to contact Fine Art Shippers and organize the transportation process beforehand.

5. Get a Fair Price

When buying a work of art abroad, make sure that the asking price is reasonable. Consult the expert or do the research on the similar items and other artworks of the same artist to find out the average market price. Please note that if the seller offers you to buy a painting at a too-good-to-be-true price, most likely it’s a fake. The normal discount you can get from a reputable dealer usually does not exceed 15% of the market value.

6. Learn the laws

Finally, before making an expensive purchase, learn what the laws say about the export and import of antique and fine art pieces. Keep in mind that some artworks require a special export permit while others are considered cultural property and cannot be exported. Therefore, we recommend that you consult a licensed customs broker or a trustworthy fine art shipping company before buying expensive items abroad.

Contact our team of experts now, and we will provide you with all the necessary information and services you need!

Art installation is a broad term for any arrangement of paintings, large sculptures, and other fine art objects in the artist’s studio, exhibition space, or collector’s home. Although it has its roots in the 1960s, the art is installation came to prominence in the 1970s largely thanks to Minimalist artists and their love to interact with space and create a dialogue with the surroundings. For today, no matter whether it comes to the mosaic installation, mirror installation, or arrangement of a dozen of paintings for a home exhibition, the process of art installing is intended to emphasize the whole collection and unified experience rather than to display individual works of art. So how to do it right? Consider the following tips and you will succeed!

Tips for art installation

1. Although to line the bottom or top of your paintings or other fine art objects with furniture or door frames in the exhibition space seems like a good idea, it is actually not. Avoid this or you risk getting a poor result.

2. If you need to arrange a collection of paintings of different sizes, do not focus on matching their frames. Your primary task is to ensure their centers are all equidistant from the floor. Otherwise, grid formation is the best choice for paintings of the same size. Anyway, before picture hanging, it’s better to cut out the paper templates and move them around the walls in order to find out the most balanced grouping. One more thing to consider is the gaps between the paintings – they have to be equal.

3. The best distance from the floor to the center of the artwork is 156 centimeters. However, it may vary depending on the wall size.

4. When choosing the room for your art collection, take into account the wall color in your home. Choosing the right background for your artworks is crucial, so that make sure they create harmony with each other.

5. Never place several large art pieces in one room as they will distract attention from one another. On the contrary, you should arrange your possessions the way they complement each other and the surroundings.

6. It goes without saying that you should install your artworks in the temperature- and humidity-controlled room only. Otherwise, your art collection may be damaged and lose its cultural and financial value.

7. Avoid electric heaters, radiators, and direct sunlight as they also can damage your works of art or lead to pricey restoration expenses.

These are the main things to consider when installing art. However, if you are not sure you can do it properly, do not hesitate to contact us. At Fine Art Shippers, we are always glad to help art collectors install their precious possessions in private homes. Our art installation services and professional art installers are ready to deal with the trickiest task!