Category Archives: Art Insurance

Collectors Insurance, Fine Art Insurance

Homeowners vs Fine Art Insurance: Gaps in 2026

Homeowners vs Fine Art Insurance: Gaps in 2026

Direct Answer / TL;DR: In this homeowners vs fine art insurance guide you’ll see why standard homeowners insurance treats fine art as ordinary personal property with severe sub-limits, named-peril coverage only, depreciated payouts, and almost no transit protection. Specialty fine art insurance delivers all-risk, wall-to-wall, agreed-value coverage — giving collectors true peace of mind in 2026.

At ArtInsuranceNow.com, we’ve been protecting fine art collections for over 40 years as a specialty broker focused exclusively on inland marine and fine art risks. This homeowners vs fine art insurance comparison shows exactly how standard homeowners policies leave collectors exposed — and why more people in New York, California, and nationwide are switching to specialty fine art insurance.

What Limitations Does Homeowners Insurance Have for Fine Art in Homeowners vs Fine Art Insurance?

Direct Answer: Homeowners policies treat fine art as “personal property” with extremely limited protection — low sub-limits, named perils only, actual cash value payouts, and minimal transit coverage. Most high-value items require a separate floater, yet significant exclusions remain.

Key limitations we see every day in homeowners vs fine art insurance:

  • Severe sub-limits: High-value collectibles or business-use items are often capped at just $2,500. A floater policy is required for adequate limits.
  • Named-peril only: Coverage applies only to listed events such as fire, theft, or windstorm. Common art-world risks — breakage, mysterious disappearance, roof leaks, sewer backup, or gradual damage — are excluded.
  • Actual cash value, not agreed value: Payouts are based on depreciated replacement cost, not the current market or appraised value.
  • No meaningful transit or off-premises coverage: Moving art to galleries, exhibitions, framers, restorers, auction houses, or second homes is one of the highest-risk activities — yet rarely covered adequately in homeowners vs fine art insurance.
  • High deductibles and claims impact: Filing an art or jewelry claim can raise your homeowners rates or jeopardize renewal. Mysterious disappearance claims are often denied.
  • No blanket or pairs & sets protection: Damage to one piece in a set does not automatically cover loss of value to the matching pieces.

As stated on our site: “An art collectors insurance requires specialized coverage, since the majority of homeowners or corporate business policies offer limited protection.”

What Are the Biggest Real-World Gaps in Homeowners vs Fine Art Insurance?

Direct Answer: The largest gaps in homeowners vs fine art insurance are in transit/exhibition, off-premises storage, breakage/handling, flood/earthquake, agreed-value vs. depreciated payouts, and pairs & sets protection. These exposures are especially acute for collectors in New York and California art markets.
Gap Homeowners Policy Reality Impact on Collectors
Transit & Exhibition Minimal or no coverage while art is in transit, at fairs, galleries, or on loan #1 cause of art insurance claims nationwide
Storage & Multi-Location Limited off-premises coverage; often excludes warehouse storage Many collectors in NYC or LA use fine-art storage or second homes
Breakage & Handling Frequently excluded Common during shipping or installation
Flood / Earthquake Often excluded or sub-limited Critical risk in California; NYC flood zones
Agreed Value & Market Appreciation Pays depreciated value only You lose the difference between purchase price and current auction value
Pairs, Sets & Devaluation No special clauses Loss of one piece can destroy value of the entire collection

What Does Specialty Fine Art Insurance Actually Deliver?

Direct Answer: Standalone collectors policies written with A-rated carriers provide all-risk, nail-to-nail (wall-to-wall) coverage with agreed values, full transit/exhibition/storage protection, restoration costs, pairs & sets clauses, and flexible deductibles — treating your collection as the unique, appreciating asset it is.

Coverage highlights include:

  • All-risk, wall-to-wall protection — anywhere in the world, from the moment the work leaves your hands until it returns.
  • On-premises, off-premises, transit, storage, exhibition, and loan coverage — no gaps when art moves to galleries, auction houses, framers, restorers, or fine-art warehouses.
  • Agreed-value or blanket coverage options — no depreciation arguments at claim time.
  • Full replacement/restoration costs plus coverage for pairs & sets, devaluation, and legal liability.
  • Worldwide transit by land, air, or sea — properly packed shipments via FedEx, UPS, fine-art movers, or freight forwarders.
  • Optional enhancements — earthquake, flood, windstorm, ransom, and more.

Learn more about comprehensive protection in our art collectors insurance guide.

Why Are Collectors Switching in the Homeowners vs Fine Art Insurance Debate in 2026?

Direct Answer: Rising auction values, increased mobility for exhibitions and cross-coast shipping, heightened urban and climate risks, expert claims handling, and the ability to keep homeowners policies unaffected make specialty fine art insurance the clear choice for serious collectors.
  1. Rising values and market volatility — Auction records keep climbing; homeowners limits simply cannot keep up.
  2. Increased mobility — More exhibitions, loans to museums, art fairs (Armory Show, Frieze, etc.), and shipping between New York and California collections.
  3. Urban and climate risks — NYC theft, pipe bursts, construction vibration; California wildfires and earthquakes often excluded or capped in standard policies.
  4. Peace of mind + claims expertise — Dedicated team experienced with fine art documentation, appraisal, and rapid settlement.
  5. No impact on your homeowners policy — Protect the art separately and keep your home coverage clean.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homeowners vs Fine Art Insurance

Does homeowners insurance adequately cover fine art and collectibles?

No. Standard policies provide only limited personal-property coverage with low sub-limits, named perils, and depreciated payouts — leaving most valuable art exposed.

What is the #1 gap in homeowners vs fine art insurance?

Transit and exhibition coverage. Most claims occur while art is moving to galleries, fairs, or second homes, yet homeowners policies rarely provide meaningful protection.

Does specialty fine art insurance cover breakage and mysterious disappearance?

Yes. All-risk policies include breakage, mysterious disappearance, and many other perils excluded under homeowners insurance.

What is agreed-value coverage and why does it matter for art?

Agreed-value coverage lets you and the insurer lock in the value of each piece upfront. At claim time you receive the full agreed amount — no depreciation or market-value disputes.

Will buying specialty art insurance affect my homeowners policy?

No. A separate fine art policy keeps your homeowners coverage unaffected while providing dedicated, expert protection for your collection.

Are flood and earthquake covered under specialty fine art insurance?

Yes — most policies offer optional flood and earthquake coverage, critical for collectors in California and New York flood zones.

William Fleischer, CIC Headshot

About the Author

William Fleischer, CIC

President, Bernard Fleischer & Sons, Inc.

William Fleischer is a Certified Insurance Counselor and leading expert in fine art and collectibles insurance. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Call our New York office today at 800.921.1008 or 212.566.1881 ext. 111.

Art Insurance, Fine Art Insurance

More Than Just Dusting: How Art Housekeeping Prevents Costly Losses (2026 Guide)

More Than Just Dusting: How Proper Housekeeping Prevents Costly Art Collection Losses (and Why Insurance Still Matters)

By William Fleischer, CIC | Updated April 2026

TL;DR / Direct Answer
Proper housekeeping prevents 70–80% of preventable damage to fine art collections by controlling dust, pests, mold, and the other “Ten Agents of Deterioration.” It is one of the least expensive and most effective protective measures you can take. Yet even the best plan cannot stop sudden events such as fire, theft, burst pipes, flooding, or loss in transit. That is exactly why specialized fine art insurance remains essential.

Why Is Proper Housekeeping Non-Negotiable for Every Fine Art Collection?

Direct Answer: Dust is not harmless—it scratches delicate surfaces, attracts moisture, feeds insects, accelerates corrosion, and becomes permanently embedded. A disciplined housekeeping program creates three protective layers (building envelope, enclosures, and the object itself) that museum professionals rely on every day.

Collectors across the country already recognize the warning signs: a faint musty smell in the storage room, a new speck of dust on a frame, or a tiny pile of frass near a sculpture. In February 2026, the Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) and Artwork Archive hosted the webinar “More Than Just Dusting: Collections Housekeeping, Mold Prevention, and Integrated Pest Management.” Led by Dyani Feige, Director of Preservation Services at CCAHA, the session delivered practical, museum-grade tactics that private collectors, galleries, and dealers can adopt immediately.

At ArtInsuranceNow.com we have insured fine art collections for over 40 years. We see the claims—and the heartbreak—when preventable damage becomes an uninsured loss.

How Do You Build an Effective Art Collection Housekeeping Plan?

Direct Answer: Create a written plan that spells out frequency, approved products, staff responsibilities, and damage-reporting protocols. Review and update the plan annually and keep a simple inspection log.

The plan should cover collection display areas, storage furniture, and seasonal deep cleans. Here is a sample schedule adapted from CCAHA best practices (customize it to your own space):

Frequency Key Tasks
Daily Empty trash, quick walkthrough for pests or damage, vacuum or dust-mop high-traffic entrances
Weekly Vacuum non-collection areas, sweep exterior entrances
Bi-weekly Dust exhibition cases and furniture, vacuum collection-area floors
Monthly Dust walls, ceilings, frames, glass, and lighting fixtures
Quarterly Dust or vacuum books and stored objects, clean windowsills and frames
Annually Deep clean behind and under furniture, unbox textiles for mold and pest inspection, full collection-space walkthrough

What Are the Smart Supplies and Safe Cleaning Techniques for Fine Art?

Direct Answer: Always use mechanical cleaning (brush then vacuum) before any damp methods. Work from top to bottom and choose only museum-approved, non-abrasive supplies.

Avoid: lemon oil, Endust-style sprays, feather dusters, bleach, abrasive cleaners, and aerosols.

Safe and effective options include:

  • Natural-hair hake brushes or Windsor & Newton dusting brushes
  • Nitrile or cotton gloves
  • Microfiber cloths and muslin
  • Orvus paste, Murphy’s Oil Soap, and Renaissance wax
  • HEPA-filtered vacuums with variable suction and soft brush attachments

The Insurance Reality Check: Why Housekeeping Alone Is Not Enough

Direct Answer: Housekeeping protects against custodial neglect, pests, pollutants, and much of the damage caused by incorrect temperature or humidity. It cannot stop sudden catastrophic events such as fire, theft, burst pipes, flooding, or loss while works are in transit.

Standard homeowners or business policies often limit or exclude coverage for fine art—especially when pieces travel across the country or internationally. Our all-risk fine art policies are written specifically for collections like yours. They deliver the full replacement value you require and include global transit coverage so your works are protected anywhere in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Art Housekeeping and Insurance

  1. What percentage of art deterioration can proper housekeeping prevent?
    Consistent housekeeping prevents 70–80% of the Ten Agents of Deterioration that standard insurance cannot stop.
  2. How often should I clean my fine art collection?
    Follow a written schedule: daily walkthroughs, weekly vacuuming, monthly dusting of frames and fixtures, quarterly stored-object checks, and annual deep cleans.
  3. What supplies are safe for cleaning fine art?
    Use natural-hair hake brushes, HEPA-filtered vacuums, microfiber cloths, nitrile gloves, Orvus paste, Murphy’s Oil Soap, and Renaissance wax. Never use feather dusters, aerosols, or lemon oil.
  4. Does homeowners insurance cover art damage from poor housekeeping?
    No—standard policies often exclude or severely limit fine art coverage. Specialized all-risk fine art insurance is required for full replacement value.

About the Author

William Fleischer, CIC Headshot
William Fleischer, CIC
President, Bernard Fleischer & Sons, Inc.

William Fleischer is a Certified Insurance Counselor and leading expert in fine art and collectibles insurance. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Call our New York office today at 800.921.1008 or 212.566.1881 ext. 111.

Art Insurance, Art transit Insurance, Artist Insurance, Artists, Comtemporary Art Insurance, Exhibtion Art Coverage

How Emerging Artists Value Art for Insurance (2026 Guide)

How Emerging Artists Value Art for Insurance (2026 Guide)

Updated March 2026

TL;DR – Direct Answer: For artists with sales history, insurers use retail sales price minus 30% gallery commission as the agreed value. Emerging artists without sales: calculate using material/framing costs + creation time at your professional hourly rate + education investment + peer comparables on Saatchi Art, Etsy, and Artfinder. Document everything—insurers accept well-supported values and pay claims quickly.

What Formula Do Most Fine Art Insurance Policies Use?

Direct Answer: Retail sales price – 30% (typical gallery/dealer commission). This net-to-artist amount becomes the insured value on an agreed-value fine art policy. It’s clean, defensible, and accepted industry-wide.

Since launching ArtInsuranceNow.com more than a decade ago, I’ve had thousands of conversations with artists about this exact question. In 2026, with booming art fairs, online marketplaces, and international exhibitions, proper valuation can mean full recovery versus a disappointing settlement.

How Should Emerging Artists Without Sales History Value Their Artwork?

Direct Answer: Everything has a value. Base your declared retail price on these fundamentals, then document thoroughly so the insurer accepts it without dispute.

Exhibition contracts require you to declare a value—even for your first group show. That number becomes the foundation for studio, transit, exhibition, and worldwide coverage.

Key Factors for Realistic Self-Valuation (2026 Edition)

  • Cost of materials + framing
  • Hours invested × your professional hourly rate
  • Education, workshops, and mentorship investment
  • Size, medium, subject matter, and uniqueness
  • Comparable sales of similar artists at the same career stage (easy to research on Saatchi Art, Etsy, and Artfinder)
  • Market demand and your exhibition history

Pro Tip from a 40-Year Insurance Veteran: Set a conservative retail price using these factors. In my experience, most serious artists land in an acceptable range; claims are paid fast when documentation is solid.

What Happens If You Over-Price Your Art for Insurance?

Direct Answer: The policy requires you to prove the value. If the insurer’s review or a third-party appraiser finds it inflated, the declared value will be adjusted downward. Always start conservative and keep detailed records.

Photos, receipts, exhibition records, and market comps are your best defense.

How Has 2026 Technology Changed Art Valuation for Insurance?

Direct Answer: AI-powered market-analysis platforms and image-recognition tools now help emerging artists identify accurate comparables in minutes. Professional appraisals remain the gold standard every 3–5 years, but these digital aids make initial self-valuations far more credible and defensible.

Protect Your Artwork with Our Custom Artist Insurance Program

We designed this program specifically for creators who treat their studio like the business it is. Coverage includes exhibition, transit, studio storage, worldwide protection, materials, and commissioned works-in-progress.

For deeper insight into why art has multiple values across appraisals, auctions, and insurance, see our expert guide: why art has multiple values.

  • Limits starting at $100,000
  • Premiums starting at $1,000 per year

No one understands the unique risks artists face better than we do at Bernard Fleischer & Sons—because we’ve specialized in fine art insurance for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Art Valuation for Insurance

How do insurers value art for artists with no sales history?

Using documented costs of materials, time invested at professional rates, education expenses, and comparable sales of peer artists at the same career stage.

What does “sales price minus 30%” actually mean?

It is the net amount the artist receives after the typical gallery or dealer commission and becomes the insured value on an agreed-value policy.

Should emerging artists get a professional appraisal?

Self-valuation with strong documentation works for initial coverage; a certified appraisal is recommended every 3–5 years or for high-value pieces.

Can AI tools replace an appraiser in 2026?

AI tools greatly speed up finding comparables, but a professional appraisal remains the gold standard for large claims or major exhibitions.

About the Author

William Fleischer, CIC
President, Bernard Fleischer & Sons, Inc.
William Fleischer is a Certified Insurance Counselor and leading expert in fine art and collectibles insurance. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Call our New York office today at 800.921.1008 or 212.566.1881 ext. 111.

Art Collector, Art transit Insurance, Collectibles

Six things you should know about Art Collection Insurance

As collectors, one of the most important things to understand is art collection insurance. Many collectors out there tend to overlook this often-essential part of keeping their valuable pieces safe. Whether you own expensive paintings, sculptures, or artifacts, having art collection insurance allows you to rest easy, knowing that in the event of theft or damage, you have some form of coverage and can recoup some of the loss. In this blog post, we dive into the ins and outs of this insurance so that you know exactly where you stand should something happen to your beloved artwork.

1 Understanding Art Collection Insurance

Art collection insurance is a special type of insurance that helps protect an art collection against damage, loss, and theft. Any artwork collector should have this coverage to secure their valuable pieces. With that in mind, various types of coverage are available to collectors. These may consist of

  • Transit coverage covers pieces in transit from the point of purchase to their home or exhibition venue.
  • Valuation coverage covers variations in value due to fluctuations in market values.

Package policies are another option at your disposal. This type of collection insurance covers multiple risks within the same policy, such as fire and uncontrollable conditions. It is a must if you plan to keep your pieces safe in storage. With that in mind, getting the right kind of insurance protection is important no matter what type of art collection you have. But more on that later. 

2 Determining the Need for Art Collection Insurance

Before determining the need for art collection insurance, it is essential to assess the total value of your collection. This involves considering all its components. This includes tangible and intangible items, such as individual objects, framed displays, and any shipping or administrative costs associated with moving a piece from one location to another. Furthermore, to identify any potential risks that may cause harm or loss to your valuable pieces, it is helpful to consider the environment they are stored or displayed in and any regular activities they may be subjected to. Finally, it is essential to evaluate existing insurance policies – ensuring adequate coverage exists against any perils your art collection may face.

3 Appraising Your Art Collection

Appraising your art collection is a critical step to estimating the value of each piece in your collection. You can hire a professional appraiser to look at your collection. A professional appraiser will thoroughly examine each piece you own and research similar pieces to determine their market value. This process will consider the condition, quality, materials used and historical significance. Furthermore, an appraisal will provide documentation with information regarding the artwork so that insurers and other interested individuals can also make educated decisions on any purchases that may occur in the future involving pieces from your collection.

4 Preventive Measures and Risk Management

Just because you want to purchase art insurance doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take preventative measures yourself. According to experts at Heart Moving Manhattan, NYC, first and foremost, you should ensure the artwork’s security by storing it in a controlled environment. Additionally, you should document artwork properly. This includes maintaining proof of purchase, authenticating any certificates of authenticity, and photographing items as proof. Furthermore, conserving artwork is important to keep them safe – this includes regularly inspecting storage conditions and avoiding handling them excessively or forcefully.

Similarly, collectors must use cushioned packaging materials when transporting valuable art objects and utilize proven couriers for reliable delivery. All these preventive measures can save money by lowering insurance premiums. Not to mention that they will bring peace of mind that your valuable collection is safe from harm.

5 Art Collection Insurance for Artists and Galleries

Art collection insurance is essential for artists and galleries to protect their investments. Not only does it protect them in the case of any physical damage that may occur to their pieces, but many insurers also provide coverage for lost or stolen artwork. Additionally, it is an invaluable tool for dealing with issues such as legal disputes and disputed authenticity. Therefore, obtaining appropriate insurance for a gallery or artist’s collection is a wise decision that could ultimately save them from great financial difficulty should the unexpected happen.

6 Choosing the Right Insurance Policy

Selecting the appropriate insurance coverage for your art collection is essential in guaranteeing the collection’s safety and security. When choosing an insurance plan, there are several aspects to consider. The most important of them are available coverage choices, policy limits, deductibles, and the insurer’s reputation and level of expertise. In addition, it is vital to carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of each kind of coverage. This entails taking into consideration the requirements and threats that are connected to your collection. If a claim is made against the policy, the limits of the policy should be enough to cover the overall worth of your collection, and the deductibles should be reasonable.

Conclusion

With art collection insurance in place, you can rest assured that you can cover any financial losses due to theft, vandalism, or damage caused by natural disasters like floods or fires. It is also essential for artists and galleries to procure art collection insurance because having a good policy in place gives them peace of mind and protection when exhibiting their artwork. To find the right amount of coverage for your needs, it is crucial to evaluate all options carefully before deciding.

Art Insurance, Art transit Insurance, Exhibtion Art Coverage, Transit Insurance

As a Curator, do you buy an Exhibition or Art Dealer policy?

Lately, I have been asked this question by curators that insure Art Exhibitions. There is silence when I ask if you are a curator or dealer. I feel it is essential to distinguish the difference.

An Art Curator has many roles when mounting a show; What is the exhibition about? Is the reason for the show the promotion of the Gallery, Artist, Collection, or yourself? All have a common thread… the “Consignment Agreement.” 

Focusing on the Consignment Agreement terms is where I look to help design the right policy for the show. Usually, this transaction comes with two different approaches to this agreement. When the work is consigned to the show, is it for just show or sale?

If the Artwork being shown is Just for display, an exhibition policy is offered to protect the art for the consignment amount and transit wall-to-wall. Wall-to-wall or Nail-to-Nail has a meaning. To insure Artwork from the time of pick, during transit, storage, exhibition, and on return to the source.

I usually add a few extra days to the policy so the insured is not caught without coverage because Insurance always ends at 12:01 am. Quite often, this will not change the insurance cost. Adding 2 to 3 extra days will take care of any unforeseen delays. 

When the work is for sale, and the curator or venue receives compensation, like a commission, selling fee, or a donation, then the Curator or Venue can be classified as a dealer.

A dealer policy is a year-long policy; the work does not have to be scheduled. There is an established limit for all exhibitions; transit and storage of the art. It works similarly to a collector’s Blanket policy, based on limits, not items. It is covered on a blanket Limit and is not limited to this single exhibition. You will have coverage for all your shows for the year. Also, there is no time restriction for returning the art after the show. It is still a wall-to-wall or nail-to-nail type of policy. As for the cost, it is usually about even with an exhibition-type policy.

In conclusion, both types of policies protect the owner of art in a curated show. Like all Insurance, I recommend reviewing the policy wording to understand the evaluations, limits, conditions, and coverages.

Art Collector, Art Insurance, Stately Homes, Unique Stories pertaining to Art

How to Light Art in Your New Home

When you move into a new home, you want everything to look perfect. However, if you’re going to appropriately light art in your new home, you might want some assistance. It’s good to know your options in terms of light sources, fixtures, etc. Besides offering you tips on hanging art in your house, we will also show you how to light it. Keep reading to find out how you can make your new home look like an art gallery. Your guests will be impressed by your ability to create eye-catching effects using art and light. 

Why should you light artwork?

If you feel that simply hanging art on your walls is not enough, you can use light to your advantage. For instance, you can use it to accentuate a piece of art by putting it in the spotlight. But you can’t just place a light bulb above it and call it quits. You need to consider the light’s angle, the type of light, and the quality. Moreover, never use fluorescent light bulbs or direct sunlight. Improper lighting can destroy a piece of art. And it is a shame to spend money on fine art only to have it ruined by such a small but essential detail. 

Displaying art in your new home

If you have recently moved into a new house, create a design strategy before displaying any of your art pieces. Your walls are empty and just waiting for you to fill them. Therefore, before bringing in your artwork, think of the layout. The experts from cleancutmoving.com recommend that you finish with renovations before bringing in any valuable items. That way, you will keep them safe and avoid any unfortunate accidents while you work on upgrading your home.

After all of the furniture is in place, you can hang art on the walls and illuminate it

How to display art

When it comes to showcasing your art pieces, there is a guideline that you can follow. Of course, you can always change things to fit your home better. For instance, if you have a painting that you want to make the centerpiece of a room, but there is no space on the walls, you can put it above the fireplace. If you hang it on the wall, the center of the painting should be 57 inches from the ground. If you place it above furniture, there should be six to eight inches between the art and furniture. 

Also, if you want to make a collage out of multiple pieces on one wall, you should leave a three-to-six-inch gap between them. You can break the rules of displaying art in your home and enhance any room with artwork. For example, you can hang paintings in the bathroom or display sculptures in the kitchen or dining room. Just make sure that you protect your artwork from humidity and sunlight.

What type of light to use for your art

There are two factors to consider regarding the sort of light you should use to light art in your new home. One of them is the color, and the other is the temperature. 

Light color

The color of light can affect the look of the artwork. Light will reflect on its surface, altering the tones and making it look brighter or darker. The best way to choose the right color of the light is to use the Color Rendering Index or CRI. According to this index, you can measure the color of light in RA. The closest thing to natural light is light bulbs with an RA of 98. LEDs are some of the best lightbulbs that you can use to light artwork. LED lamps with an RA of 90 and above are perfect for lighting art pieces.

Light temperature

You can measure the temperature of light in Kelvins. At 1000K, the light is warm, but at 10.000K, it is cold. Opt for LEDs with a Kelvin temperature range of 2700 to 4000. That will offer a light temperature range from extra warm to cold. Also, always choose white light bulbs. That way, you will have the best combination of color and temperature.

Choosing how to light art in your new home is very important. Based on the color and temperature of the light, you can make a dull painting look like a masterpiece. 

Types of lighting fixtures

After you find the best light bulbs for lighting your artwork, it’s time to pick the light fixtures. Here are four fixtures that can help you highlight your art:

Accent lights – you can mount them onto the ceiling and adjust the direction. The best positioning of the light source for an art piece is at a 30-degree angle. 

Track lights – these lights have almost the same function as accent lights, but they are not mounted directly onto the ceiling. They are adjustable and fastened to a track bar on the ceiling.

Wall washers – you can install these light fixtures on the walls, ceilings, or floors, and they will help you spread light evenly. Furthermore, they are easy to install and remove, so it will be easy to change their position if you decide to change the layout.

Picture lights – are the best option you can use to light art in your new home. You can mount picture lights right on the frames or use a picture light lamp with a low voltage above an art piece. In the end, you can choose your light fixtures based on the type of artwork you are displaying. For example, a sculpture can be lit from multiple angles, while a photograph needs a specific angle. Before installing the lights, bring in the art pieces and position them. If you are in New York and need a helping hand with moving your artwork, you can hire a local moving company. A local crew can be super helpful when relocating your valuable pieces.

Choosing the right fixtures can add to the charm of the room

Final words

Now that you know how to light art in your new home, you need to insure your art. Art insurance will keep your pieces safe in case of hazards like fires or floods – having your art insured will help you sleep peacefully at night.

Art Insurance

Here’s an opinion on art from a 25-year-old

What is Art? The word “Art” originated from “to arrange.” Any human that arranges things that already exist in a new or different form. Art is a means by which individuals can express their technical and creative skills to communicate with the world. It’s not just painting, music, writing, or performances. It has no boundaries and is much broader than any of us can imagine. Everything from knitting a sweater to cooking to sculpting to technology can be termed as art. Every person has a different skill through which they convey their emotions to the world in their own unique way. It’s not always beautiful and can be ugly, but what makes it significant is its impact on someone.

The product of one’s artistic creation is called artwork. A representation of reality from an individual perspective is what makes it so beautiful and stands out to the world, touching several lives. For example, Monalisa by Leonardo DaVinci, The David by Michael Angelo, Taj Mahal by Shah Jahan, Islamic calligraphy, European architecture, music and dance forms from different cultures, cuisines across the world, performances by people and many more are all a piece of wonder and considered art.

Its authentic nature calls for us to guard these precious creations. Some are preserved in museums, and some die with humans; the others need to be insured. These artworks are worth a lot and vulnerable to theft or damage. People have dedicated their whole fortune towards the collection of these artworks, and it might even be their business. That’s where insurance comes in. The right insurance can protect oneself from these dangers and insure the losses if any.  Its value might appreciate over time and insurance gives you that reassurance and peace of mind to let you continue collecting art.

Art Collector, Art Insurance, Art transit Insurance, Transit Insurance

Guide to transporting large-format paintings

Generally speaking, moving to a new home is a challenging process, no matter how many possessions you have. However, moving with valuable and fragile possessions can be even more frustrating and stressful. Transporting your family’s art collection is no easy task because it involves careful and skillful packing, preparations, and planning. For this reason, we have written a guide for transporting large-format paintings so that you have a clearer idea about what you need to pay attention to and what you should expect once you start organizing your move. 

It is definitely true that large paintings, old photos, antique furniture, and decorative items all require special treatment during relocation. There are many things you can do to prevent damages made to the frames or the artwork itself. However, in case you still feel that the necessary ‘packing precautions’ may not be enough to keep your large format paintings secure, we strongly suggest you inquire about art insurance as a backup plan, just in case something goes wrong. 

Place the artwork into appropriately sized boxes.

The first thing you need to pay attention to is the size of the boxes and the paintings. In most cases, small and medium-sized paintings are placed together in large boxes. This is done to prevent friction and the potential shattering of the glass and frames. Therefore, the artwork and the boxes containing the artwork should be stacked and pressed together to minimize movement in the vehicle. 

When it comes to moving larger artwork, the best thing to do is pack each piece in a separate box that is only slightly larger than the painting itself. These specialty boxes have to be carefully chosen and purchased from the supply store well before your relocation. 

You should not improvise with boxes that are larger or smaller. Having a larger box leaves room for movement and potential damages, cuts, and shattered glass, whereas the painting may fall out of a box that is smaller than the painting. 

Tape the glass with an X

If the picture has glass protection, be sure to tape the glass with masking tape diagonally. This little trick will keep the glass in place in case it cracks during transportation. 

In case your large-format paintings are not framed or protected by glass, it is best if you wrap the front of the painting with several thick layers of plastic wrap, palette wrap, or any other wrapping material that will protect it from impact.  

How to wrap your large-format paintings with wrapping material

As we mentioned, you should wrap your artwork in thick layers of the wrapping material of your choice. But what is the best way to do this? Let us take a look. 

●     Cut two equally sized pieces of brown paper (should be larger than the painting)

●     Place the framed painting face down against one sheet of brown paper

●     Cover the painting with the second sheet of brown paper 

●     Tape down the ends of the brown paper together like a present

●     Wrap the packing tape around the painting on all sides

●     Place the painting in a box

Pro tip: add a layer of wrapping paper or shock-absorbent wrapping material

a woman packing a book with brown paper
Brown paper is malleable and firm enough to give support to your large-format paintings.

Be sure to use brown packing paper rather than newspapers or other types of paper that do not offer the necessary support. Newspapers are not large enough to be taped down and wrapped around large-format paintings, and they tend to leave print ink on artwork. 

As you can see, art should be handled properly, so if you are unsure whether you can pack and move your large-format paintings or art collectibles on your own, the best thing is to call in professional artwork packing and moving crews.

Check if the painting is moving inside the box.

Before you finally seal the box with tape, you need to give it a few gentle pushes so that you can estimate if the painting is moving too much inside the box. If this is the case, you can crumble some newspapers to create padding. As we said before, be sure to do so only if you have already wrapped the artwork in brown packing paper. 

Seal the box appropriately.

In our experience, it is best if you use specialty boxes to pack large-format paintings such as triptychs. Place the tape on both ends of the box. Of course, you should first seal the upper part of the box and then stand it so that you can tape the bottom end for additional safety. This can be a bit difficult if the painting format is extremely large, so be sure to have a helping hand nearby just in case.

a man taping down a moving box
Use wide, firm packing tape to seal the box in the end.

Label the box

It might appear to you that it is obvious which boxes contain your large paintings. Regardless, you must label the boxes clearly and appropriately since you can really never be too sure what people might do to the boxes if they see them unlabeled. 

So, note down that the box contains fragile or glass items with a clearly written, short word such as ‘Fragile’ or ‘Glass.’  Proper labeling is crucial.

Be careful when placing the boxes into the vehicle.

Moving truck

Be sure to check if the moving crew is placing the paintings on the side of the moving truck. This is where labeling comes in – the artwork must not be laid flat on the ground, which means you need to inform the moving crew about the size of the vehicle you need. You can also stack your artwork between heavy furniture and other large items to prevent them from moving. 

Keep in mind that when transporting extremely high-valued fine art, you may require a professional art shipper.

We hope this short guide to transporting large-format paintings helped you prepare for the big move with your art collection. Good luck!

Art Insurance

The Importance of Having Proper Art Insurance

Art collectors, museums, galleries, artists, dealers, and auctioneers have one interest in common – The love, and preservation of art. The latter is what proper art insurance is for. A knowledgeable broker will know how to meet your requirements and make sure that your valuable possessions are insured against unforeseen damage and loss.

Art collectors, museums, galleries, artists, dealers, and auctioneers have one interest in common – The love, and preservation of art. The latter is what proper art insurance is for. A knowledgeable broker will know how to meet your requirements and make sure that your valuable possessions are insured against unforeseen damage and loss.

Risk management in the world of art

Knowing the perils of owning art and how damage can be prevented is crucial for risk management in the art world. In other words, you will not know how to protect your valuable art if you are unaware of the risks. That’s why ArtInsuranceNow.com is here to help clients choose the right type of insurance tailored to their situation.

Why should an artist, or collector have to be familiar with insurance terminology in order to choose proper coverage, when they have a team at ArtInsuranceNow.com who will recommend the best possible coverage for their collection? There is another necessary step to set a solid risk management framework, and that is hiring experienced art movers to transport your art. According to top art insurance carriers, most accidents occur during transport making up to 60% of insurance claims. For mitigation of this risk, you require qualified movers to handle your most valuable possessions.

Do you know the true value of your art collection?

Even though you know the sentimental value of your art piece or collection, you will probably not be able to determine its market value until you get it properly appraised. Once appraised, ArtInsuranceNow.com can present accurate coverage that is suited to your requirements. All of which provide cost-effective protection, tailored to meet your individual circumstances. It is essential to have a policy that covers damage or loss on or off-premises, during transport, in storage, and while the art collection is being exhibited or auctioned.

Accidents Happen

The true importance of having proper art insurance can be seen when an unfortunate event occurs. The smart thing to do is to think ahead and get superior coverage and stellar service with ArtInsuranceNow.com for your art. There are many perils that your art can be exposed to:

Theft

Art trafficking is one of the most prosperous criminal acts. It has been so from ancient times and unfortunately, it still is. Having proper art insurance cannot replace what has been lost but it will help you recover your investment.

Damage

All pieces of art are precious, but some are more delicate than others. You can never be too careful when protecting your valuables. Accidents happen and we usually do not see them coming. Art pieces can be completely destroyed or get ruined and lose all value in:

  • Floods,
  • Fires,
  • Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, etc.

Transit

Most damage to art happens in transit. Yes, movers can destroy your precious items. Whether it is due to incompetence or simply by accident, movers can damage the items you care so much about. So, be careful when hiring people to relocate your valuable pieces of art. Have a list of questions to ask before making the final decision about who will perform your relocation. Ask your friends for recommendations and call at least three companies to see what they offer. You can even contact the nearest gallery or museum and ask them for advice.

Transportation of fine art pieces is the riskiest part of the relocation, but your movers should also be careful when packing and unpacking. Preparing the pieces of art for relocation is a delicate task and it should never be done under pressure. That is why you should never try to self-transport valuable items. Hiring fine art movers might seem expensive, but can you really put a price tag on your peace of mind?

Ask your movers to describe the entire moving process to you. Will they come and see your art pieces before the relocation date so that they can make a plan? What kind of materials are they planning on using? Is the moving truck temperature controlled? Feel free to ask whatever comes to mind. After all – it is your art collection and you have the right to know.

In Conclusion, Having proper art insurance means that you can rest assured that your art is covered for unforeseen circumstances. Risk management is the best investment you can make for your collection or maybe even the precious piece you inherited from a relative.

Art Insurance, Artist Insurance, Fine Art

Avoiding Online Art Fraud

The following are excerpts from our Principal William G. Fleischer’s Q&A interview with renowned online art site, Artsy.

Artsy features the world’s leading galleries, museum collections, foundations, artist estates, art fairs, and benefit auctions, all in one place.  William represents leading art insurers like: AXA, Travelers, Chubb, XL-Catlin, ARIS, Philadelphia, Tokyo Marine, Markel, Hartford, and Berkeley, just to name a few. He has been honored by Insurance Business Magazine as a top Fine-Art Insurance broker. 

1. How do you assess who is at fault in the case of online fraud?

It’s always the seller, and what does that mean? It means it could be an auction house, gallery, dealer, artist, or collector. It only takes one to commit fraud and fool the rest.

Anyone selling art or buying art has the exposure of fraud. Both parties must do their due diligence, such as verifying provenance, artist catalog raisonné, and authenticity certifications. If the art has an appraisal, then verify that it is not photoshop or touched up. To make sure one does all they can to confirm the authenticity, these are some resources: contacting the appraiser, establishing the comparisons, and researching the appraiser to avoid possibly buying or selling a fake.    

Some art dealers try to do a soft touch by requiring sellers/consignees to sign documents regarding titles, conditions, and appraisals to endorse that they are true. The more you inform yourself, the better; you can never do too much research or ask too many questions.  

When it comes to fraudulent art coverage, not all art policies cover fraudulent artwork; it is considered contraband, and selling contraband is illegal. If the work is scheduled for your collector’s policy and is found to be fake, there is no misrepresentation coverage. If you have a blanket policy, you will be paid for the fake market value. So buying and selling fake art is legal as long as you disclose it as a replica.

2. How have your policies adapted to cybersecurity breaches in the art market?

The traditional Art insurance policy has not adopted to cyber exposures. The insurance industry developed a special Cyber Liability Policy focusing on cyber-crime exposure. This policy pertains to identity theft, ransomware (when someone locks you out from your data, emails, network, etc.) extortion, stealing secrets passwords, defacing websites, and virus attacks. 

3. How recent is this sector in the field of insurance?

Cyber is about ten years old. With the proliferation of online business, there has been a growth of hackers, viruses, and extortionists. The increase has risen so significantly that our government has created requirements for firms to follow to protect consumers.

As for online fraud, it has been around since the time you could upload pictures to the web, and Adobe Photoshop was developed. This has caused many issues from wiring, bounced checks, and even sending empty boxes to purchasers.

4. How long has ArtInsuranceNow.com been involved in this aspect of insuring artworks? 

We have been insuring online art dealers for the past seven years. It has grown into a vertical marketplace. Everyone is selling online, including artists, collectors, auction houses, galleries, dealers, and even art stores.

Each has its own unique exposures to fraud. Keep in mind that not all policies are the same. Be sure to check if your policy addresses your requirements like online transit coverage, method of valuation at time of loss calculations, or covering your art inventory on and off the premises.

5. Do you see a greater need for this kind of protection in the industry?

For Cyber, yes. New York State has joined other states imposing a cyber law called “Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security.” (Shield) https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/legal-and-compliance/state-and-local-updates/pages/new-york-shield-act.aspx this requirement enforces that all employers to have a plan preventing breaches to their computers, networks, and associated vendors accounts.

This is a forever ending battle between hackers and online transactions. As for the actual exchange of art, there have been talks of blockchains, but it’s too young of a concept and still unproven to be used as a standard in today’s art transactions. 

6. Can you provide some examples of cybersecurity cases you’ve had to handle? 

I have not handled any cyber claims directly, but I am aware of a few: 

A hacker was able to enter the data of a large firm. They then posted the information on a social media website for everyone to read. The leaked information included: what they purchased, addresses, the items they sent, family members, affairs, second homes, and other nonpublic notes in a client file.

This was a clear breach of confidential information. Although it was not their fault, the firm was sued because a spouse learned of an affair and asked for a divorce. Another lawsuit was served because a private loan against the art was shared, which tainted their reputation. All in all, this breach caused multiple cases.

Another case brought to my attention was a prominent online dealer who was hacked by ransomware (explained above). It was very costly to pay. They locked him and his staff out of their management system, websites, all email accounts, and their access to vendors.

The business was frozen until the ransom was paid. The dealer did have the option to rebuild his systems from scratch, but it would be time-consuming, and with these delicate matters, time is of the essence.

The last I will share case occurred with a museum. A director was out of town on business, a hacker got into her email and sent a request to wire money to the controller to purchase art work. Just like that, the transfer was done, and the Museum lost $30,000.

7. What should collectors keep an eye out for regarding insurance when collecting online?

For fraud, they should keep an eye out for: the reputation of seller and buyer, the person or company who does the appraisals, condition reports, how the art is packed, whether the items are on the government forbidden list (like ivory), and complaints. 

When it comes to cybersecurity, confirm: if there is a security in place, preventing attacks.If the second or third party provides software against breaches to their system, if there are approved certificates on their website, and have a separate bank wire account for just purchases.

Be sure to have firewalls on your computer, verify before opening embedded links by looking at the URL where it is coming from? Install anti-virus software and keep it up to date. Before clicking any link, go with your gut. When in doubt, don’t click.

We work with “A” rated Insurance Companies to ensure art collectors, galleries, museums, dealers, artists, and auctioneers that their works are properly taken care of. Get your free quote below.