Category Archives: Uncategorized

Fine Art Insurance, Insurance Claim Reporting, Uncategorized

Insuring Art in Transit: Shipping, Loans & Exhibitions

Insuring Art in Transit: Shipping, Loans & Exhibitions

TLDR: Sixty percent of fine art claims are transit-related. This guide explains best practices for insuring art in transit during shipping, loans, and traveling exhibitions, including all-risk policies, loan agreements, handling protocols, and documentation that wins claims.

Updated June 2026

Why Does Insuring Art in Transit Demand Special Attention?

Transit is the single biggest cause of loss and damage in the fine art world. Once a work leaves its secure environment, it faces physical risks such as impact, vibration, temperature swings, theft, or total loss. Human factors like improper packing or rough handling and logistical issues including delays, customs inspections, or unexpected storage add further exposure.

Key insight: Risk spikes the moment art moves and remains elevated until it is safely unpacked and re-secured at its destination. Real-world examples include crates shifting inside trucks, artworks dropped during unloading, and components accidentally discarded during installation.

How Does Standard Insurance Fall Short for Art in Transit?

Standard homeowners or commercial property policies are designed for everyday risks, not fine art in transit. They frequently contain limitations or exclusions that leave collectors exposed precisely when protection is needed most.

True fine art insurance placed through ArtInsuranceNow is written on an all-risk basis (exclusions and conditions still apply) and typically provides wall-to-wall coverage. This means protection from the moment the work leaves its current location until it is safely installed at its destination, or as specifically defined in a loan agreement.

Key terms you must understand:

  • Transit limits — the maximum amount your policy will pay for any single shipment or exhibition.
  • Territorial limits — confirm whether coverage extends internationally or worldwide.
  • Common exclusions include wear and tear, gradual deterioration, inherent vice, repairing/restoration, war risks, government seizure, and nuclear risks.

The bottom line: if your current policy was not specifically designed for fine art, there is a strong chance it will not respond fully when art is on the move. A specialized fine art policy fills those gaps.

Who Is Responsible for Insurance During Shipping or Loans?

One of the most common sources of confusion and claim disputes is the question of who actually carries the insurance. Owner? Shipper? Borrower? Museum?

Too many people operate under dangerous assumptions such as “the shipper’s coverage will protect me,” “the museum always insures loans,” or “my homeowners policy automatically covers art in transit.”

The correct answer is simple: Get it in writing before anything moves. Clear responsibility must be established in advance, preferably in the loan or consignment agreement itself.

How Can Loan Agreements Protect Your Art?

A well-drafted loan agreement does more than outline dates and venues. It establishes insurable interest, defines the exact insurance responsibility period, and sets the agreed valuation.

The single most important addition for a dealer or exhibitor is a limitation of liability clause. ArtInsuranceNow strongly recommends language similar to this:

“The Lender agrees that in the event that the Work(s) is lost or damaged, recovery will be limited to such amount as may be paid by the insurer, and the Lender hereby releases the Borrower from any further liability for claims arising out of such loss or damage.”

This clause creates perfect congruence between the borrower’s insurance coverage and their legal liability to the lender. It protects both parties and dramatically reduces the chance of expensive litigation after a loss. When you do not control the packing, shipping, or handling, consider transferring risk away from your institution through the loan agreement.

What Are Best Practices for Shipping and Handling Fine Art?

Protecting art in transit starts long before the truck arrives. Follow these proven practices:

  • Choose the right shipper: Work only with experienced fine art specialists rather than general commercial carriers. Look for climate-controlled vehicles, air-ride suspension, professional security, and real-time tracking. Ask about courier options (full-time staff couriers, bookend couriers, or virtual couriers) depending on the value and fragility of the work.
  • Packing and crating: Use appropriate materials and methods designed specifically for fine art. Include monitoring devices that track vibration, temperature, humidity, and location. Clarify in advance whether there will be any short-term storage in warehouses, vehicles, or airports.
  • Handling and installation: The highest frequency of damage occurs during loading, unloading, and hanging. Insist on trained handlers, provide clear written instructions, and conduct site checks when possible. Whenever feasible, oversee installation yourself or send a representative.

What Are the Three Smartest Ways to Insure Traveling Exhibitions?

When organizing or participating in a multi-venue exhibition, you generally have three main options for insurance coverage:

  1. Use your existing annual policy limits. The organizing museum or institution extends its own all-risk, wall-to-wall coverage to the entire tour using its annual transit and off-premises limits. Pros: Usually no extra premium. Cons: Any claim at another venue can negatively impact the organizing institution’s loss history and future premiums. In most cases, the insurer must be notified in advance.
  2. Purchase a separate stand-alone exhibition policy. A dedicated policy is placed to cover the entire exhibition (travel, premises at all venues, and dispersal) under one insurer. Pros: Protects the organizing institution’s loss record; single point of coverage for the full tour. Cons: Additional premium cost that must be factored into exhibition fees.
  3. Each venue insures its own segment. Each participating institution covers the premises at its location plus the transit leg to the next venue. Pros: Usually no extra cost to the organizer. Cons: Coverage is patched together; lenders receive multiple certificates of insurance; policies may differ in quality and limits; determining which policy applies to a loss can become complicated.

For larger or higher-value tours, ArtInsuranceNow generally recommends option 2 (a separate exhibition policy) because it provides the cleanest, most consistent protection.

What Documentation Wins Fine Art Insurance Claims?

Strong documentation is what separates fast, full claim payouts from denials or reduced settlements. Before any work ships or goes on loan, make sure your records include:

Core Identification: Artist name, title of work, date of creation, medium and materials, dimensions (framed and unframed), edition number (if applicable), and value to be insured.

Documentation of Value: Purchase price and original invoice/bill of sale, current appraisal(s) with date and appraiser name, provenance (ownership history), and comparable sales records (when available).

Condition & Care + High-Quality Images: Recent condition report(s) with date, conservation or maintenance history, detailed photographs of front, back, signature, labels, and any existing condition issues, plus high-resolution images of the full work and installation images when relevant.

Location, Custody & Insurance-Specific Details: Current location and status, loan or consignment agreements, shipping and transit documentation, insurer name and policy number, coverage type (all-risk preferred), insured value, policy renewal date, and any special riders, conditions, or exclusions.

Pro Tip from ArtInsuranceNow: Always complete a written condition report at the precise moment insurance responsibility transfers (typically when the work is picked up by the shipper or handed over to the borrower). This single step prevents the majority of claim disputes. Learn more about the fine art insurance claims process.

What Red Flags Can Void or Delay Your Claim?

Avoid these common oversights that frequently cause problems:

  • Assuming “someone else” has the insurance covered
  • Failing to document location changes in your collection management system
  • Undervaluing or overvaluing works without supporting documentation
  • Missing or incomplete loan/consignment agreements
  • No written condition report at departure or arrival
  • Condition reporting not completed at the exact point of insurance transfer

How Can You Protect Your Collection the Right Way?

Protecting your collection while it is on the move does not have to be stressful or overly complicated. It simply requires the right specialized fine art insurance paired with strong documentation and clear agreements.

ArtInsuranceNow works exclusively with the leading fine art insurers to design all-risk, wall-to-wall policies that actually respond when art is in transit, on loan, or part of an exhibition — often filling the gaps that standard homeowners or commercial policies miss.

William Fleischer, CIC Headshot

About the Author

William Fleischer, CIC

Principal, ArtInsuranceNow

William Fleischer is a Certified Insurance Counselor specializing in insurance solutions for the fine art and collectibles market. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

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

Uncategorized

What to know about the differences in Art Dealer Insurance policies

I work with many Art Insurance Carriers, and each company’s approach to valuation differs, which is why it matters. 

Normally, there are three ways to evaluate art at the time of claim. 

The first is true with almost all art insurers. It’s the sold price, hammer price, and the cost to take the art away.  This can or may not be in the final receipt, which could include extra fees, cost of crating, documentation, storage, cleaning, etc. 

The Second Valuation has some twists and turns.  The cost of the Artwork you own is evaluated at:

  1. Your purchase price plus 20% or Retail sales less than 30%, whichever is greater.  
  2. Your purchase price plus 30% or Retail sales less than 20%, whichever is less.
  3. Your purchase price plus 30 % or Retail sales less 20%, whichever is greater.
  4. Your purchase price plus 30 % or Retail sales less 20%, whichever is less. 

The third Valuation is key for all Art Dealers and Art Galleries—consignment valuation.  The Art insurance dealer policy’s usual definition of Evaluation of a consigned work is net consignment + 10% of the retail price.  I have seen a new consignment amount plus 20%. It’s a little richer if something happens. 

In Conclusion, the differences may or may not affect the price, but knowing how insurance is settled is essential. 

Please visit my website to complete the Art Dealer / Gallery insurance application. 

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7 Tips for Buying Art as a Gift

Few presents are more memorable than art pieces. Gifting artwork to a family member, a good friend, your special someone, or a great colleague is a fantastic way to show how much you value them. However, doing is more challenging than saying. Gifting art requires thought, time, planning, and, most importantly, some inspiration. Therefore, it’s only normal for most people to become anxious while thinking about buying art for others. So, to overcome this issue, we compiled a list of tips for buying art as a gift and eliminating doubts. Here is how you can pick the perfect art piece for those who matter to you.

1.   Think about who you are buying art for

When you want to buy art for someone, consider their preferences. If you know the person well, you can trust your instincts and buy something you believe they would enjoy. If you need some inspiration, look around their house for things that could give you a hint. What is their interior design like? Do they have a retro, contemporary, or minimalist decor? Make your art present entirely about the recipient’s preferences! Is their house full of wide open spaces and blank walls, or is it decorated with art?

At the same time, look at the home’s features and think about practicality. For instance, a big piece of art might be unfitting if the house is small. Also, if the home is filled with furry friends, delicate might be inappropriate as it needs protection from pets.

Small room with large windows and paintings on the walls.
Look around your loved one’s home to see if buying art as a gift is a good idea.

2.   Consider your friend or loved one’s hobbies

Does the recipient of your art gift have a hobby or interest? Maybe they are interested in traveling, surfing, movies, or architecture. In that case, perhaps you could get drawings of famous buildings for those interested in architecture. Or, a landscape painting for your friend that likes to travel. Whenever you choose art as a gift, look for pieces that reflect the recipient’s interest. That way, your success is almost guaranteed.

3.   Consider the location and distance between you 

By location, we don’t mean where the recipient will display the art. We are referring to the distance between you and where the art needs to arrive. If the recipient lives far away, and you want to send the gift, you must choose the art piece carefully. Works on paper and photographs are easy to pack and keep safe during shipping. 

However, you need to consider your options if you want to send a larger or more valuable piece of art. For instance, the experts at Consumer Opinion advise getting in touch with some particular service providers. One of them is an insurance broker, as one of the things you need is art insurance. If the piece gets damaged on the way, it won’t be a total loss. You will also need experienced movers to handle your art piece. That way, you can be sure that the gift is in good hands. So get some experts on your side, and buying art as a gift will become easy.

Fragile warning sticker on a cardboard surface.
Think of how you will send the art piece to your loved one.

4.   Set a budget and learn when to stop

Art pieces can come in many shapes and sizes; thus, they can also come at many prices. In addition, there will be a significant difference between purchasing art online, in a gallery, or straight from an artist. For that reason, when you decide to buy art, it’s a good idea to set a budget. If you find great art that is perfect for a loved one but too expensive, you will have your budget to restrain you from making an unwise purchase. As much as you value a person and want to show that to them, it’s essential to know where to stop.

5.   Buying art as a gift can be easy with the help of an expert

You will be amazed how a simple conversation with an experienced gallerist can help you in your quest. A professional can help you clarify your ideas and determine what type of art you should look for. At the same time, a gallerist might come up with some ideas of their own that can help you see even better what you are supposed to look for. Not to mention, dealing with a licensed expert can protect you from art fraud. Therefore, if you have doubts or lack inspiration, seek the help of an expert.

6.   Consider custom paintings as an option

If you find yourself exploring many galleries and still have trouble finding that perfect piece of art, consider custom paintings as an option. Most artists love creating new artworks, which are not as expensive as you may assume. So, if you come across an artist whose work you enjoy, don’t hesitate to contact them and request a custom-made painting. Tell the artist who the painting is for and what the recipient means to you. That way, the painter can create something based on your needs that will meet your expectations. 

Person painting using blue hues.
You can find numerous artists that would be happy to create a custom painting.

7.   Should you send art framed or unframed?

The answer to this question depends on your budget and how you want to deliver the artwork. If you want it framed, it is ready to hang as soon as it reaches the recipient. However, framed art is more delicate and heavier to carry. 

At the same time, unframed art is ideal for shipping, and the gift recipient can choose their frame. Many art prints are available in custom sizes, and you may select a ready-to-frame option.

 Final words

As you can see, buying art for a loved one doesn’t have to be a daunting quest. You don’t need to spend days in a row in art galleries looking at all the paintings or searching for the finest printable art on the internet. Just look closely at your loved one, their house, and their hobbies. Then, talk to an art expert or an artist, and they will help you find what you are looking for. Therefore, the next time you think of buying art as a gift, remember these tips and make your search easier.

Uncategorized

PROTECTING Your Fine Art and Antiques from Pets

Many people wrongfully believe that having a furry family member means they will have to sacrifice style in their home. However, they couldn’t be more wrong! Having pets doesn’t mean you’ll have to put away your fine art and antiques, but it simply means you’ll need to be careful and find ways to protect them. Even though getting proper art insurance is crucial, there is so much more you can do to ensure your valuable collection is pet-proof. To help you do this, we’ve prepared tips and advice, and you can find them further in this article. 

Ways to protect your fine art and antiques from pets

Pets bring so much joy into our lives, but that joy usually comes with chaos and mess. However, this doesn’t mean you should give up your lovely art or your pets on the other hand. You can have a stylish home and your furry buddy living in it if you make sure to pet-proof your home.

Finding ways to protect your fine art and antiques is that much more important if you have pets.

This is even more important if you own valuable art pieces, antique furniture, or similar. Whatever your reasons for investing in fine art are, you want to ensure your precious pieces are always safe, especially with your four-legged friend running around. To help you ensure your valuables are protected, we’ve gathered tips from experts, and you’ll find them if you continue reading.

First thing’s first—train your pet

You can try to protect your belongings as much as you want, but your efforts won’t pay off unless you invest time into training your pet. Therefore, as soon as you bring your new family member into your home, it’s essential to start with their training immediately.

Be prepared for a potentially rough start, as your pet will need some time to adjust to the new environment. This means that your belongings will need some extra protection during that period. The team from roadwaymoving.com suggest temporarily renting a storage unit for your most precious items. Once your pet is trained and used to their new home, they’ll wait for you in the same condition you’ve left them.

When training your pet, you will ensure your home is safe from damage and have a great opportunity to bond.

Tips for training your pet

There are plenty of options for helping your pet adapt to its new home. You can even hire professionals such as private trainers to help you with this. In case you want to do it on your own, here are some valuable tips we’ve gathered from dog training experts:

  • Before you bring your new pet home, decide on house rules. For example, if you’ll allow them to climb on furniture, or will there be no-pet zones
  • Set up space for your furry friends. Like people, animals like to have their own space for relaxing. Plus, this will prevent your pet from marking a different part of your home as their territory
  • Reward good behaviors and use lots of positive reinforcement to encourage them. This way, your pet will easily learn and know what’s right and wrong
  • Correct negative behaviors as quickly as you notice them. Pets, especially dogs, have a tendency to forget quickly. So if you punish your dog later, chances are they’ll be confused and not connect it with their previous behavior

Protect your furniture and antiques from pets

In case you’re about to have a long-distance move to your new home, looking for the right crew for the job and hiring expert movers isn’t the only thing you should worry about. As you’re moving into a new property with your furry family member, it’s essential to pet-proof it. That way, you’ll ensure both your belongings and your pets are safe.

On the other hand, you might be considering getting a pet, and you want to know to make your home more pet-friendly. You want to create an environment where your new family member will feel safe and welcomed. 

Pet-proof your home in style

Keep in mind that pet-proofing your home doesn’t mean you should forget all about style. It just means you need to be more selective and mindful when choosing your furniture and decor. For example, make sure to opt for fabrics that aren’t magnets for pet hair. If you already own antique furniture which isn’t made of pet-friendly materials, make sure to keep them covered or not allow your pet to climb on it. 

When it comes to your decor, it’s very important to keep it out of your pet’s reach. Regardless of how trained your pet is, accidents can happen, so it’s essential to try and minimize the risks. Consider installing a high shelf that your dog can’t reach. Or you can put your valuable decor pieces behind glass so your cat won’t be able to knock them down.The safest way to ensure your fine art is safe is to keep it away from your pets completely. However, if you keep them in a safe or in storage, you won’t be able to proudly display them in your home. To avoid this, consider dedicating no-pet areas in your home. For example, if you’re not planning to allow your cat in your master bedroom, perhaps it could be a perfect place for your favorite painting.

Take your time to get to know your pets, their character, and habits.

Remember, every pet is different, and you need to get creative along the way and as you get to know them. Pay attention to their behaviors and as soon as you notice something you don’t approve of, make sure to let them know. And don’t forget – applying for proper art insurance is not an option but a must if you have a pet. 

Final thoughts

We hope our tips and advice helped you protect your belongings, especially fine art and antiques, from pets. But always keep in mind that accidents can happen, and your precious art collection can get damaged or even ruined. For that reason, it’s crucial to invest in proper art insurance. This way, even in case something unfortunate happens to your valuables, you’ll at least be financially secured.

Fine Art, Uncategorized

The Pros and Cons of Investing in Fine Art

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Many investors are broadening their investment schemes by becoming active in various luxury markets in this day and age. Some choose to invest in wine, coins, even cattle. But the art world offers plenty of investment opportunities even for laymen and beginners who want to buy valuable artworks. It is a common misconception that the art market is welcoming only for the affluent. Aside from personal appreciation and admiration fine art provokes in investors, there are many financial and practical benefits and drawbacks to investing in fine art. Here we will dissect what lies in store for you if you decide to become an art collector.

Should I invest in fine art?

Interestingly enough, many myths have put off ‘ordinary people’ from investing in art. The first concern is that you are at risk of becoming a victim of many scams, fakes, and rip-offs that lurk in the fine art market. 

Of course, this is not entirely unfounded. Yet, a crucial source of the rush and excitement of being an art investor lies in doing your research and trading with the right art galleries, brokers, curators, and artists. Furthermore, you can always protect your investment by insuring your fine art collection. 

So, let’s take a look at arguments for and against becoming an art collector in more detail.

Pros of Investing in Fine Art

Blue-chip artworks are rarely subject to inflation

If you have never heard this term, blue-chip art means that the piece is attributed to acclaimed or world-famous artists like El Greco, Picasso, Van Gogh, Modigliani, etc. As mentioned before, you have to do a fair amount of research if you plan to trade in blue-chip artworks. Furthermore, you have to ‘enter’ the fine art world confidently to be successful at it.

A woman sitting in an art gallery looking at paintings
Blue-chip art refers to artworks made by acclaimed artists.

But all the efforts will be more than worth the hassle. Blue-chip artworks are an excellent hedge against inflation. This is one of the primary reasons why trading art is so popular among the wealthy. Think of it this way. Investing in artworks is like investing in real estate. Or in other words, a valuable artwork is a tangible asset that is rarely subject to fluctuations on the stock market. 

Supporting an emerging artist can be a good investment (if done right)

However, you may also support a promising artist and get the same financial reassurance. Just be mindful that the rise in appreciation and value of an art piece authored by an emerging artist may skyrocket for quite a while but also flatten out after some time. Hence, it takes a lot of knowledge, interest, and commitment to distinguish a great artist from an artist of the moment. Also, the value of artworks belonging to different schools or art movements will increase at different rates.

An abstract painting.
Fine art can have value and be beautiful at the same time.

You do not have to be rich to invest in fine art

Another misgiving is that trading art only makes sense if you are extremely rich. Starting from 2011, art investors saw anywhere from 11% to 14% return on investment. Admittedly, such a staggering increase resulted from China’s attempt to purchase back its art heritage from the West. 

Nowadays, the potential return is not as high, but given that investing in fine art outperforms investing in equities, it is far from true that buying art makes sense only if you are wealthy. In fact, the value of fine art is highly stable. Even investing a few thousand dollars into a lesser-known but appreciated artist is highly likely to multiply once the artist attracts the art community’s attention. 

So, you could go rogue and give a chance to a promising artist or some interesting old artifact. Your initial investment of, for example, $2,000 can easily jump to $10,000 if the said artist or cultural artifacts become trendy in the art world. 

Furthermore, moving the artwork from the gallery to your home is not as expensive as it used to be. Note that moving a newly purchased piece of art is best handled by reliable fine art movers. Nowadays, you can work with experienced professionals and avoid losing your investments in case of transportation damages. 

The Cons of Investing in Fine Art

The return is high, but the risk is high as well

So, you can potentially earn a lot of money if you decide to join and trade in the high art society. However, unless you have stumbled upon a rare or blue-chip piece, you can never be too sure your investment will increase in value. 

Sure, it happens that art investors suddenly become millionaires. Unfortunately, ending up with an unsellable artwork is a more realistic outcome. For example, conceptual and pop art are usually flashy and attractive to laymen entering the art market. And yes, these kinds of artworks can accumulate a lot of prestige. But, more often than not, you are just taking a chance with these kinds of pieces. This is particularly true if the artist has not come into the limelight yet.

A painting of a face
Investing in an unacclaimed artist can be a gamble.

When art dealers evaluate art, they do this based on the history of transactions that the given artist has had so far. So, depending on what’s in vogue, the piece’s value could either skyrocket or – not. This basically means that the appreciation for artworks of artists just stepping into the market is arbitrary. 

You cannot sell your artworks whenever you want

One of the biggest disadvantages to developing a fine art collection is that selling it takes time. You cannot sell a painting in a day or two. The entire process can become quite long and require a lot of effort on your or your curator’s part. You have to contact auction houses, pay their commissions, pay additional fees when you sell the artwork, etc.

This means that you cannot just ‘flip’ fine art whenever you feel like it. Also, if you sell too soon, you may even regret being hasty and selling the piece for less money. You may have to be patient and wait for the right moment to do so. However, the problem is that you can never be too sure if the right moment has come. 

Storing fine art can be tricky

One of the major cons of investing in fine art is the lack of storage space or inappropriate storage conditions. If you live in a big city, your apartment can easily become overcrowded rather than embellished, thanks to your art collection. Furthermore, you need to make an effort and protect your art collection by keeping it in a suitable environment. Damp, hot air, or exposure to bright light can easily damage artwork. This means you may have to shell out even more money for your artworks’ proper storage and maintenance.

Uncategorized

Beginner’s Guide to Buying Valuable Art

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As children, many of us have found a hobby in collecting stamps, coins, or postcards. In contrast, some people take this hobby a step further and become art collectors. It may become an expensive hobby, but it can also be rewarding if done correctly from the beginning. Therefore, we have put together a beginner’s guide to buying valuable art to help you get started. 

Find your style before buying valuable art

Whenever you want to start collecting art, finding your style first is essential. You should only purchase pieces that represent you and that you can connect with. Thus, start doing some research into the types of art:

  1. You can visit art galleries or studios and educate yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Curators love to engage in discussions about art, plus they are a great source of information.
  2. Libraries are also a great source of inspiration, especially for people who enjoy reading about art history.
  3. Research online, the Internet is the greatest source of information of our time. 

After you acquire a clear view of what type of art you enjoy the most, you can take the next step in the beginner’s guide to buying valuable art. 

Set a budget

Some of us tend to get carried away when buying things that we like. When it comes to art, things can get out of hand even more. To ensure you avoid unpleasant situations, set a budget for spending. This way, you will make sure you buy the art you like at a fair price. After all, you want to make a collection, not stop after your first piece of art because you can’t afford to buy more. 

Find the right places to buy art

This is one of the critical steps in ensuring you buy authentic art. Art fraud is flourishing, especially online. Research as much as you can about your art provider to avoid unpleasant situations. For example, you can ask for authenticity certificates. Also, you can request a contract that states that the piece is genuine and includes terms that protect you in the event of fraud. When searching for the best places to buy art, in addition to art galleries, you might want to look for art fairs, studios, and auctions. Most of the time, buying directly from the source is the wisest decision. It removes any doubt about authenticity and value.

A person admiring valuable art in a gallery
Visit art galleries to get inspired and maybe find the first piece of art that you will buy.

Buying from art galleries

One of the safest places where you can buy valuable pieces of art is galleries. They keep records of all the art pieces ever exposed, and they can guarantee authenticity. Another big plus is that dealers in art galleries are usually open to negotiation. You can get up to 20 percent off of the initial price. At the same time, keep in mind that the artist you are buying from receives only half of the amount, with the rest going to the gallery. 

On the other hand, some art galleries might make it more difficult for first-time buyers to obtain art from them. For example, even if you can afford a particular piece, the dealer may refuse to sell it to you. This is because they sometimes seek customers with a so-called “pedigree” who purchase expensive pieces regularly. This can create some discomfort for a beginner but don’t take it personally, and always try again. 

You should also pay attention to whether or not the price is listed and whether or not the piece has a red dot. If it has a dot, it means that it has been sold.

Looking for art in studios 

Some artists invite potential customers into their studios to see how they create. It’s a fantastic way to meet the artist and discover how your favorite piece of art was made. Furthermore, you can buy directly from the source, which can mean better prices and the opportunity to negotiate.

An artist drawing on canvas
Art studios are a great place to see how art is created.

Art fairs and auctions 

Art fairs are a fantastic way to see what’s new in town and what the prices are. Even if an art fair might be pricey at first, prices generally drop at the end of the event. Moreover, dealers are more approachable at fairs than in galleries. It is a less formal event, and they are more open to engaging in discussions. Don’t miss this opportunity to ask questions. 

On the other hand, auctions are a different story. For example, you never go to an auction unprepared. Always do thorough research and ask more experienced people for help. Even if it might be confusing in the beginning, auctions can be fun. There is a bit of show and entertainment to them that can get you hooked. Yet, you should only participate if you can stop yourself from going over your budget. Keep in mind that auctions can be fun but dangerous for your pocket.

Protect the art you buy

Another essential thing to mention in the beginner’s guide to buying valuable art is to protect the artwork you buy. Insuring your art is vital, especially if you are collecting as an investment. You never know how a painting might get damaged or stolen. Protect yourself and your art by insuring it. 

Prepare your home for art

If you are planning to hang wall art in your home, make sure you consider some details. For instance, try not to hang paintings over the fireplace. Heat is an essential factor in the deterioration and aging process of canvases. Also, avoid placing them on exterior walls or near windows. Humidity is also incredibly dangerous when it comes to paintings. Instead, choose to expose art on straight walls, at eye level, and with proper framing.

An example of how valuable art should be hung on walls
When buying valuable art, make sure you create the best conditions for displaying it.

How to keep valuable art safe if you are relocating?

If you are moving to another home, ensure that your art is in good hands. Making sure it is properly packed and transported safely to the new location can be time-consuming and stressful. The easiest way to relieve yourself of this burden is to hire residential movers. Bring in professionals to help you transfer to your new beautiful home and enjoy a carefree move.

Final words

Entering the world of art collectors can be difficult but also satisfying. It requires a lot of research, tact, and sometimes good negotiation skills. Make sure you have a promising debut by following our beginner’s guide to buying valuable art.

Transit

Guide to packing art & antiques like a pro

Art and antiques are an amazing investment and a beautiful part of your home. However, when it comes to relocating them to another home or gallery, people are faced with the problem of packing. Most people make the mistake of packing these items in the same way as the other things in their homes. This way, they increase the risk of damaging valuable items and therefore losing their favorite objects. So, to make sure your valuable belongings are safe during transport, learn to pack them properly. Here’s a simple guide to packing art and antiques like a pro – the easy way.

Give yourself enough time

The biggest mistake you can make when packing art and antiques is to do it in a rush. We may indeed be faced with deadlines we have to meet and they require speed and efficiency, but these fragile and valuable items require patience. Therefore, try to give yourself enough time to pack everything properly. A few extra steps and secure packing techniques will ensure that your items are safe during transport and you don’t damage them while packing.

Make an inventory list

Another pro tip is to know exactly what you’re moving – especially when packing antiques and other valuables. This might seem like an extra step that you don’t need, but it has proved to be very useful for many. Therefore, if you’re packing more than one item, or moving the entire house or a gallery, make sure you write down all the items you’re packing. To make things easier – you can use an app to make your inventory list.

Know the value of your items

 When moving art and antiques, it’s necessary to know the worth of the art pieces you have. Make sure you get an appraisal from a professional and be ready if anything happens to the items during transport.

Before packing art and antiques, inform on the number and worth of your items – and obtain the necessary insurance.

Prepare all the tools and supplies

To pack fragile items, make sure you’re ready to start the process – especially if there are a lot of them. It’s necessary to get all the supplies you’ll need to pack everything safely, so once you start packing, you don’t need to take a break and go to the store, but can finish everything in one take. To start packing art and antiques like a pro, you’ll need:

  • moving boxes – if you’re not buying new boxes but getting used ones, make sure you check if they are in good condition.
  • packing paper – get a lot of it, to protect the items properly.
  • tape – use heavy-duty tape, to ensure none of the boxes open during transport.
  • corner protectors – these are very useful when packing paintings, fragile frames, and mirrors.
  • a microfiber cloth – use this to clean the items before you wrap them, and make sure the wrapping will stay tight on the item.
  • foam/stretch wrap, blankets, bubble wrap – use it to wrap the items and keep them clean and safe from vibrations and tumbling.
  • furniture pads – depending on the sort of items you’re moving, obtain furniture pads of appropriate sizes.
  • markers – make sure you label every box properly. Write the contents of it, but also mark the box with the word ‘fragile’.
Fragile items take time to pack – remember that when packing art and antiques for a move.

In case you can’t get all the supplies, or don’t know how to use them properly, contacting a pro is the safest thing you can do. Don’t make this mistake if you need to relocate your collection that is valuable and irreplaceable. The right supplies combined with an expert packing technique is the key to a safe relocation of valuable art pieces and antiques.

Obtain art insurance

To ensure your items are properly covered in case of damage or loss, getting appropriate insurance is a necessary step. Whether you’re a professional or moving a private art collection, fine art insurance from a reliable broker will give you peace of mind.

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Packing fragile art and antiques – all the steps

When the time comes for packing art and antiques, you shouldn’t be tricked by the age of certain items. Even though something is very old and has survived for many years, it doesn’t mean it’s strong as before.  Antique items are very fragile, and investing time and effort in protecting them during transport will surely pay off. These are the steps that will protect most of your fragile items:

  1. clean the items – use a cloth to carefully wipe the item so the layers of protection can adhere properly.
  2. wrap the item with a protective wrap – even though this step can’t protect the item from breaking, it can surely keep it clean, and free from scratches.
  3. wrap the item with a blanket, a sheet of plastic bubbles, or foam – these will minimize the vibrations during the transport.
  4. put the item in a protective shell – if you don’t have the original packaging, use a sturdy moving box, or ideally a wooden crate. This final step will give the strongest protection from tumbling and other sudden movements.
  5. minimize the risk of damage by loading the fragile items last, and getting them out of the vehicle first.

Should you disassemble antique furniture?

When it comes to moving furniture, it’s often much better to move it in separate pieces. However, with antiques, that’s not the case. As we mentioned, old items have survived for a long time, but they are very fragile and every sudden movement or strong pressure is extremely risky. Therefore, invest in additional packing material, or simply hire a moving professional to help you out. Make sure to choose the safest option, since antique pieces are irreplaceable and should be well-protected during transport.

Art Insurance, Transit, Transit Insurance

The Importance of Art Transit & 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.

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 that is at their service who will recommend coverage based upon their unique situation? There is another necessary step to set up a solid risk management framework, and that is hiring experienced art movers to transport your art. According to top art insurance carriers, most accidents involving art occur during transport making up to 60% of insurance claims. For mitigation of this risk, you will require qualified art movers to handle conveyance.

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. Don’t have an appraisal? we can still write a policy but at the time of loss, you must prove the value. ArtInsuranceNow.com can present accurate coverage that is suited to you. This provides cost-effective, comprehensive protection. It is essential to have a policy that covers damage and loss on or off-premises, during transport, in storage, and while the art 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 the stellar coverage and exceptional service ArtInsuranceNow.com offers. There are many perils that your art can be exposed to, some examples are:

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 types of art can be precious, but some are much more delicate than others. You can never be too careful when protecting your valuables. Misfortune happens and we rarely see it coming. Art pieces can be completely destroyed or get ruined and lose all value in many ways, here are just a few:

  • Floods,
  • Fires,
  • Natural disasters
  • Fraud
  • Heist
  • Inadequate handling

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 or destroy the items you care so much about. So, be careful when hiring someone to relocate your valuable pieces of art. A good practice is to have a list of questions to ask before making a 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 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 your valuable items. Hiring fine art movers might seem expensive, but can you really put a price tag on peace of mind? It only takes one mistake to ruin an important work of art.

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.

Having the combination of proper art insurance along with qualified art movers means that you can rest assured that your art is covered for unforeseen circumstances and is in good hands when being transported. Risk management is the best investment you can make, for an extensive collection or just the precious piece of art you inherited from a relative.

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