What an art consultant can do for your collection

Art consultants make it easy to buy art

Art consultant Jennifer Perlow began working with a client who was decorating the walls of a small neurology clinic. The client did all of his art purchases on his own, on a fairly small budget.

“I took on the project for her,” Perlow recalls. “She was amazed at how much easier it got.” The client was pleased with how easy it can be to buy art when working with an art consultant or consultant.

Perlow's firm, Lewis Graham Consultants, buys art for clients to fill large spaces. “My job is to find the best things within your budget that match what you are looking for,” she says. It is important to note that there is no difference between art consultant and art consultant, these names can be used interchangeably.

This is the first part of a two-part article series that discusses the role of the art consultant, also known as the art consultant. It outlines the main responsibilities of these professionals and the reasons why you might consider hiring one of them to help with your art collection. describes the finer details after you have hired an art consultant and how they can be involved in the day to day maintenance of your collection.

1. Art Consultants Rarely Ask for Additional Fees

Galleries and artists often give consultants and advisors discounts on work. Many consultants buy full-price work and receive a discount as part of their payment. This means that you get what is essentially a free consultation, and the consultant makes a profit by maintaining the relationship.

"You don't pay more to buy art through an art consultant than if you went through a gallery," says Perlow. "The difference is that I've been to ten galleries in the last two months." Perlow provides her with a free consultation, knowing she will profit from a sale she is proud of. Consultants and advisors are also not tied to a particular gallery or artist. They manage relationships with experts to bring the best work.

2. Art consultants put your style and preferences first.

When looking for the right candidate, you need experience in similar projects. This may be based on size, location, or style. Please note: If you enjoy the work of an art consultant and your only concern is that you want the consultant to focus on contemporary rather than antique paintings, it is worth asking the consultant about the project. Consultants do not stick to personal style or preferences. Their job is to reflect your desires for your art collection. “I never include my personal taste in a work of art with what I'm about to give to a client,” Perlow confirms.

3. Art consultants are always up to date with events in the art world

“Part of our job is to stay fresh and up to date with what's new,” says Perlow. Consultants will participate in tours of the galleries and keep abreast of all discoveries. It's much easier to rely on an art consultant to keep up with new artists and styles, especially if you're balancing a challenging career with a busy personal life. An art consultant or consultant works with gallerists and artists on a daily basis to stay up to date.

4. Art consultants are a great resource for large projects

Your art collection should never be intimidating or overwhelming. “We're here to make the whole process easier,” says Perlow. Art consultants are experienced in handling large projects and creating an art collection that moves seamlessly through the hallways. If you want to furnish a guest house and want the project to be completed quickly, an art consultant is a great option.

5. Art consultants are ready to help

“Know that there are resources out there,” says Perlow. The Association of Professional Art Appraisers has a list that you can check out to start your research. Starting with location and experience is your first step towards finding the right person. “It's a very personal relationship,” says Perlow. “My goal is when we finish a project, [our clients] miss us when we’re gone.”

Finding, buying, hanging, storing and caring for your collection can be challenging as your art collection grows. Get more great ideas in our free e-book.