Collector Commentary

Fine art and antique appraisal is a complex and multi-faceted profession that requires a deep understanding of both the art market and the history of art and design. In these articles, we dive into the world of art and antique appraisal, exploring the intricacies of valuing works of art while examining the historical and market influences that shape their worth.

  • Here you will find our favorite articles that will answer all your questions about antique and art appraisal.

  • Here we explore the fascinating world of the art market. From soaring auction prices to emerging artists, stay up-to-date with the latest trends and insights in this ever-evolving industry.

  • Join us on a journey through time as we explore the rich and diverse history of art and design. From prehistoric cave paintings to modern masterpieces, discover the stories and influences behind some of the greatest works of art in human history.

Identifying Art at a Glance: How Can You Tell if Art is Original

Identifying Art at a Glance: How Can You Tell if Art is Original

Getting your work appraised may seem like a complicated process, but it is much easier than you think to determine your appraisal needs. This article will help you identify mediums, artist signatures, gallery labels, and any other identifying information that could answer your questions and determine whether or not you need a USPAP compliant appraiser to step in. 

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10 Bananas Thrift Store Finds
Art News, Collecting Antiques, Art Collecting Madison Kelley Art News, Collecting Antiques, Art Collecting Madison Kelley

10 Bananas Thrift Store Finds

Although rare, high value objects at the thrift store are not necessarily impossible to find. It typically takes a keen eye to recognize an object that seems out of place, a concept that has captured the imagination of Goodwill-goers for decades. The idea that your local thrift store may be hiding hidden treasure may seem far-fetched, but it likely did to these 10 lucky buyers of overlooked art historical gems as well:

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Surrealist Legacies
Surrealism, Art Collecting, Women in Art Madison Kelley Surrealism, Art Collecting, Women in Art Madison Kelley

Surrealist Legacies

The 2022 Venice Biennale’s central exhibition takes its title The Milk of Dreams from the writings of female surrealist Leonora Carrington (1917-2011), curated by Cecilia Alemani. Including both contemporary and historical artists, Alemani outlines a magical realm that proves the enduring nature of surrealist notions. Now is the chance to learn from art history and take note of their rising female contemporaries who continue the surrealist legacy

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Should You Invest in NFTS and Cryptoart?
NFTs, Art Collecting, Cryptoart Lindsey Owen NFTs, Art Collecting, Cryptoart Lindsey Owen

Should You Invest in NFTS and Cryptoart?

Over the last several months, there has been increased media coverage on NFTs and cryptoart. NFTs and cryptoart are not new things— in fact, the first NFTs were used in 2017. As for cryptoart, this is an iteration of digital art or computer art (a.k.a. “new media”), and artists and art critics have been dissecting these pieces since the early 1950s. Cryptoart is simply digital art that is integrated into blockchain technology.

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How To Buy Art on Instagram
Art Collecting, Instagram, Contemporary Art Lindsey Owen Art Collecting, Instagram, Contemporary Art Lindsey Owen

How To Buy Art on Instagram

In 2015 the New York Times published an article about Instagram’s growing influence on the art market. Over the years, online art sales continued to increase accounting for $4.82 billion in sales in 2019. Flash forward to 2020, galleries and museums, and auction houses had to close their doors and move online. This means that Instagram is more influential than ever when building your collection.

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Where to Find Quality Antiques

Where to Find Quality Antiques

The first decision you have to make when looking for quality antiques is where to look. It’s important to understand that not every second-hand store is the same and narrowing your scope will help you to avoid sifting through inventory that seems irrelevant to you. Quality antiques can be found in thrift stores, estate sales, antique malls, antique stores, flea markets, and auctions, as well as online platforms like eBay, Etsy, Craigslist, LetGo, and Facebook Marketplace.

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