An art expert may be able to provide you with the knowledge you require if you need advice or an appraisal on a work of art, or simply have a specialized question to ask. “Art expert” is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of people with varying educational and professional backgrounds. Check the credentials of any expert with whom you discuss personal matters, and remember that getting a second opinion is always a good idea.
You can start looking for an art expert on a local level by contacting local antique dealers or museums. Find out if they use a local appraiser or firm that can direct you to the right resources. If you have a question about a specific artist, historical period, or style, you may need to consult a specialist in the field.
Consider contacting any nearby university’s art department, but be sure to check credentials. While degrees in art history or art are valuable, they do not always imply that a person is an expert in the field. Always ask polite questions about the background and experience of anyone you speak with, especially if your questions are about a potentially lucrative new discovery. Consider making an appointment with the curator of any nearby art museums that deal with the period or artist you’re researching.
Consider contacting an art expert who works for an appraisal firm if you have a piece of art with an unknown origin or history that you believe could be valuable or historically significant. These businesses can research and discover a piece’s history, artist, and market value for a fee. It is critical to find an appraiser whose work is certified by a recognized appraising organization if you plan to have the artwork insured or prepare it for sale. Contact one of the many overseeing appraisal organizations, such as the American Society of Appraisals, Appraisers Association of America, International Society of Appraisers, or the Private Art Dealers Association, for a list of such experts.
You might be able to answer your own art questions if your questions are more general, such as how to get into collecting or research for a published work. On the history of art and the lives of artists, there are thousands of publications available online and in libraries. Contact local professors and museums for assistance in directing your search. Art lovers enjoy talking about their passion and may be happy to point you in the right direction.