Collecting the Collector - An Arform Unto itself

The Collector as buyer or seller is a unique persona who demands a discerning eye from any vendor, especially the real estate professional.  An additional layer of technical knowledge and ability to nurture is required when venturing into a fickle space with a tremendous array of diversity.

PERSONA
Discovery is part of the client relations process.  If a broker is not "in step" with client tastes, representation is nearly impossible to source an adequate property in which to appropriately showcase a new or existing collection.  Client personality is a phenomenal window into their tolerances of certain artistic expressions and mediums.

PASSION
Exploring the creative spirit behind the client vision is a necessity as they consider their long-term purpose and goals for collecting with their own interpretive wand.  The psychology and need that collecting fulfills are as valid as the art itself.  For example, how do you counsel a man whose parents have amassed an extraordinary collection as he develops ways to differentiate his personal brand from theirs?

PLACEMENT
An intuitive edge guides the agent to be mindful of signature elements important to the collector.  Skill in placement transcends where art should go and provides assurance that aesthetic matches their goals.  Appraisers, framers, installers, transportation, lighting, security, insurers, cataloging, and art opinion leaders are relationships that must be developed to function with this demographic.

I was able to begin my path in this arena through volunteering for a major art auction committee populated by experts in the field in addition to acting as a liaison to an art collection management committee of a private club.  My knowledge was augmented further through a pivotal seminar on art appraising organized by the area's leading private advisory for personal insurance and risk analysis, Candace Jennings.  The notes from that one seminar and relationship with the presenter are still with me as guideposts from 2011.

Art moves each individual in vastly different ways.  Relationships with real estate professionals are defined by the breadth and diversity of experiences.  Proficiency in working with the creative mood of the Collector and highly technical aspects of supporting collection placement is a key tool for skilled representation.