Let’s suppose you have decided to become an art collector. Yet, this hobby can’t just be limited to buying some paintings and putting them on the walls. Valuable art requires continuous and qualified management, which you will need to master. Here, we reveal how to manage an art collection like a pro and share some vital tips to make this process easier for you.
How to Manage an Art Collection?
As a rule, the process of art collection management starts with artwork acquisition. You need to do your due diligence before the purchase and choose the auctions, galleries, and private sales of your interest to scope your search. Once you have identified a work of art that you want, it’s time for provenance research and authentication.
Documenting Your Artwork
Now that you have bought the new item for your collection, you need to create a detailed record for this object with all relevant details about the artist, the item’s dimensions, and its current condition. Take photos and videos of the artwork for reference; they will serve as a point of comparison for your further condition reviews. Besides, these records are used by insurance companies to determine the terms and size of the premium for your policy.
Though documenting one item seems to be ridiculous, you will appreciate that early investment as your collection grows. It will be very hard to recollect all the details of each deal and artwork with time, so putting it all down on paper gives you a great tool for inventory management and tracking.
Condition Audits
All art tends to deteriorate, even if it is properly stored and displayed. You have to keep that process under control with regular condition assessments and reports. Identify the signs of damage and take timely action to restore the artwork.
Conservation
As soon as you notice the signs of degradation, it’s time to take preventive measures. Hire a qualified restoration and conservation expert to repair the damaged items and slow down their destruction.
Proper Storage
Make all arrangements for the artwork’s secure and optimal storage. The main point of concern is climate control, which is instrumental in the preservation of art objects. It would also be best to take care of the air quality and proper ventilation in the storage room. Security is also key if you want your valuable belongings to remain in your ownership.
Now, you know how to manage an art collection at the beginner level. Once you master all these routines, feel free to embrace more advanced responsibilities, such as exhibition and loan curation, legal arrangements, financial management, and facilitation of research and educational activities.