Art collection management is a dynamic career where only the most forward-looking and flexible individuals can succeed. Managing an art collection requires advanced communication, managerial, administrative, and creative skills. Above all, it also requires an ability to adopt new trends and practices to provide optimal protection to valuable art pieces. In this blog post, we’ve summarized the main trends in art collection management for professionals, which are suitable for both public and private collections.
Technological Advances in Art Collection Management for Professionals
Technological innovation has given a powerful boost to art collection management. Modern cloud databases allow for the storage of massive amounts of data in one place, facilitating record-keeping, auditing, insurance, and many other essential activities. Therefore, art collection management for professionals is impossible without learning new IT skills, and online database management is one of the skills that should be constantly perfected.
Useful innovations appear in the area of information management as well. For example, near-field communication (NFC) technology based on magnetic field induction allows for transferring information about an art piece with the simple tap of a smartphone. As a result, an art collection manager can have instant access to information about the art piece’s value, provenance, artist’s details, etc. With NFC, managing large collections becomes easier because it eliminates the need for obsolete paper-based collection management systems.
There is also a tendency to upgrade technologies that create a perfect environment for art pieces. Various hygrometers, humidifiers, air blowers, and other equipment allow for maintaining a perfect temperature and humidity in the storage or exhibition room. Smart technologies offer an additional benefit of distance control, helping managers keep an eye on the collection from any location.
Ultra-Contemporary Art on the Rise
Another emerging field of art collection managers’ activity includes the ability to appreciate and take good care of ultra-contemporary art pieces. These may take a variety of forms, from traditional oil canvases to tricky installations created by yet-unknown artists. An art manager’s job is to make sure that no matter what form or shape the artwork has, it fits nicely into the existing collection and is exhibited in a way that highlights its uniqueness.
Art logistics is also part and parcel of art collection management. If you need any assistance with this part, Fine Art Shippers can offer expert help with art transportation, installation, storage, and much more. Our team keeps up with the most recent trends in art protection and management to provide the highest quality of services.