evaluative skills and deepening my appreciation for a broad range of fine art. Meeting the owners and hearing their stories of how they acquired the works continues to capture the imagination of the public and I always enjoy hearing how much these works mean to their owners. This, combined with my auction house background, forms the cornerstone of my current consultancy, where I guide clients through the intricacies of collecting and valuing fine art, ensuring they find pieces that resonate personally and will continue to be appreciated. For our clients considering the venture into art collecting, what initial steps would you recommend? Beginning your art collecting journey can be as exciting as it is daunting. As mentioned before, I advocate starting by visiting art fairs and auction previews, but also fine art graduate shows, public gallery exhibitions and commercial galleries. This will help to educate your eye as you will see a diverse array of artworks available. These venues are ideal for discovering what truly appeals to your taste. It is also very helpful to speak to experts such as dealers and auction house specialists who can guide you and inform you in more detail to complement your own research and gain deeper insights into the artists’ work. Embrace your personal taste and follow your instincts as you know what you like.
and, when possible, view the artwork in person prior to making a bid. While the initial cost may be attractive, be mindful of the additional expenses associated with bringing an artwork to gallery-ready condition.
What advice would you give clients who want to buy art an investment?
I would always say that unless you have a huge budget and can afford to buy works by the great masters, you should buy only what you really like. It is very hard to predict trends in the art market and know what will appreciate down the line. This is especially true with contemporary art. It can take a long time for an artist to become established and for their work to gain a following in the secondary market, i.e. at auction. You may even find that if you buy a contemporary piece from a gallery it will be worth far less if you try to sell it at auction. Buying a piece of historical art is often less unpredictable, but make sure it is in good condition, with good provenance, as there are fakes on the market. Should our clients desire expert guidance or have specific queries regarding their art collections, how might they contact you? I am readily available to assist with any queries related to fine art valuations covering probate, insurance, and current market prices. I can also assist with general collection management including curation, conservation, framing as well as bidding at auction. My aim is to de- mystify the art world for my clients, helping them to build a collection that resonates on a personal level while considering investment
For enthusiasts of period art, what guidance can you offer to aid their exploration and acquisition?
potential. For those seeking advice or valuation services, I can be reached at
Delving into period art requires a discerning eye and a passion for history. Buying from reputable dealers, although sometimes more expensive than auction, gives you the benefit of their expert eye, having vetted and in many cases conserved and framed artworks. Keep an eye on the auction market, as it frequently presents opportunities to acquire period pieces at reasonable prices. Online auction platforms like The Saleroom and Invaluable provide access to most auctions across the UK and the world. It is crucial to request detailed condition reports
info@suzannezack.com. I provide informed and nuanced advice tailored to each client's unique needs and aspirations. Above all, I want to help my clients enjoy the process and be open to discovering a whole new world of art appreciation.
info@suzannezack.com
Connect with Suzanne
www.suzannezack.com
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