PROTECTING ART PURCHASES
How to Protect Your Artwork


Purchasing art should be an enjoyable and engaging experience, and while it may become a meaningful investment, it also comes with important responsibilities. From documentation and transportation to framing, installation, insurance, and long-term care, each step plays a role in protecting the artwork you've chosen to bring into your life. Before leaving the gallery, make sure you receive proper paperwork, understand the authenticity of the piece, and know how to care for it safely. Once the artwork is in your possession, consider where it will hang, whether it's covered under your current insurance policy, and what precautions you should take to prevent damage from sunlight, temperature changes, or everyday handling.


This guide walks you through the essential information every collector should know, whether you are new to buying art or expanding an established collection. Here you'll find practical advice on documentation, transport and shipping, framing, hanging and storage, insurance, appraisals, and maintaining relationships with galleries and artists. With thoughtful preparation and the right knowledge, you can ensure your artwork remains safe, protected, and appreciated for years to come.



DOCUMENTATION FROM THE SALE


  • Bill of Sale
    You should always receive one, and keep a copy with the artwork.

  • Letter of Authenticity
    Be sure that you receive one, especially if the piece is part of a limited edition.

  • Artist Resume and Biographical Information
    Always maintain current updated information about the artists whose work you have purchased.

  • Artist Statement
    If practicable, attach artist information - such as contact info and an artist statement - on the back of the artwork.

  • Type of artwork
    Even though it may seem obvious, ascertain whether the work is an original, limited edition, or reproduction and ensure that its status is reflected accurately in the Letter of Authenticity.

  • Special Care and Handling Instructions
    Learn - preferably from the artist or gallery - how to protect and care for your artwork.

  • Meet The Artist
    Openings are a good place to meet the artist. It is always fun and rewarding to establish a personal connection with the artist. You might also take the artist to dinner or drinks, or invite them to your home to see their work on your walls.

  • Gallery and Artist Mailing Lists
    These are easy ways to follow artists' careers.


TRANSPORTING ARTWORK HOME


  • Car / Van / Truck
    Make sure you have a vehicle large enough to get the artwork home.

  • Supplies Needed
    Cardboard, blankets, and bubble wrap can be used to protect the artwork. Don't forget packing tape to secure the bubble wrap around the object, and ensure that the tape only touches the bubble wrap; not the artwork.

  • Transportation Insurance
    Do you have insurance while the artwork is being transported home?


SHIPPING ARTWORK


  • Gallery Advice and Recommendations
    The gallery is the best source for recommendations about shipping choices.

  • Art Transportation Companies
    You will find this type of art service in large cities.

  • Crating and Packaging Services
    Make sure the services are experienced in correctly packaging and protecting artworks for shipping.
    Always ask the gallery if it has a service it routinely uses, as this would be the best bet.

  • Federal Express and Other Carriers
    Be safe and go with a trusted carrier like Federal Express.


FRAMING ARTWORK


  • Archival Framing
    Make sure your artwork is framed and protected with archival framing.

  • Glass or Plexiglass?
    Glass breaks, but it's easier to clean and take care of.
    If the artwork is expensive; however, go with the added safety and protection of Plexiglass.


HANGING OR STORAGE OF ARTWORK


  • Where to Safely Hang Artworks
    Never hang expensive art over a fireplace.
    Always protect artwork from heat and direct sunlight.

  • How to Hang
    Use the appropriate type of art hanging device.
    Go with a professional service when the artwork is large and expensive.

  • Type of Hangers Needed
    There are special types of picture-hanging hooks for artworks; the gallery should be able to provide information about the best type. Professional framing stores and home hardware stores sell hanging hooks.

  • Professional Installation Services
    These are usually available in large cities; galleries can give you a referral.

  • Storage Options
    If your walls are already covered with artwork, you may need to store the artwork you've just purchased - at least temporarily. Be careful with wet basements, and always keep artworks three inches off of the floor. Ensure that the temperature and humidity of the storage area is stable year-round.


DOCUMENTATION OF ARTWORK


  • Artwork Details
    Document your artwork fully: include size, current condition, type of artwork.
    Also, make notes about any identifying numbers or markings on the artwork and make sure you know the correct title and date of the artwork. How was it framed when it came to you originally; and what is the prominent subject matter of the art?

  • Photographs of Artwork
    Digital cameras work well; make sure to photograph from different angles.

  • Artwork Information and Records
    Keep in a safe place that is also in a separate building from the artwork itself (in case of fire). A safe deposit box is a good option.
    Documentation to protect includes the bill of sale, artist statements, appraisals, articles about the artist, etc. All should be kept together in a safe place.

  • Books about the Artist
    Purchase copies of all publications related to the artist, as some may go out of print, be printed in limited runs to begin with, or otherwise later be very difficult or impossible to obtain.


INSURANCE OF ARTWORK


  • Types of Insurance Coverage Available
    Ask your insurance agent or the gallery you are purchasing from.

  • Homeowners vs Other Types of Coverage
    Homeowners policies frequently cover art but check with your broker; you might have to list your artwork as a separate item if it is over a certain value.

  • Current Insurance Information
    Keep your insurance company updated with current artwork value.
    This should be done yearly or whenever the value of the artwork changes.

  • What Insurance Companies Pay?
    Are you protected from damage or loss due to an earthquake and water damage?

  • Partial or Total Loss.
    Will you be covered for the full value of the artwork or only a partial value?


ARTWORK APPRAISALS


  • Professional Appraisals
    You will need one when selling or donating the work to a museum.
    Where to find Professional Art Appraisers

  • Finding price information online
    The Internet will direct you to artist information; search for the artist name on Google or Bing.
    Look for the artist's website; next, check for galleries representing the artist.

  • Auction Price Results
    There are several companies that provide major auction results.
    One of the largest online price resources is Mutual Art .
    They also have very affordable online appraisals.


KEEP IN TOUCH WITH THE ARTIST


  • Loan Artwork to the Artist
    Someday the artist might want to borrow your artwork for a major retrospective.

  • What Galleries Represent the Artist
    Know the names of other galleries selling and representing the artist's works.

  • Artist Mailing List
    Contact the artist and ask to be added to their mailing and email list.

  • Artist News and Articles
    Learn how to use "Google News Alerts" for information about the artist.


WHEN YOU'RE ON VACATION


  • Artwork Storage
    You might consider placing the artwork in storage if you're away for a long period of time.

  • Cover the Artwork
    Ultraviolet light is one of artwork's biggest enemies; covering it helps protect it and keeps it from fading.




Mutual Art information about appraisals, artist information and and auction results

Data Base of Art Auction Prices and Artist Information
Are you interested in researching an artist or looking for current auction prices?
Mutual Art is a great place to start. They also offer the lowest prices for online appraisals.
They are a well respected source of art information online.




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