The Serendipitous Path to Art Dealing
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of art dealing, a realm where ambition, a discerning eye, and the ability to embrace risk converge. Mark Lambert, a seasoned professional in this captivating field, stumbled upon this extraordinary path serendipitously. Initially destined for a career in art education, a chance encounter with a prominent art dealer forever altered his trajectory. “I began my tenure as the gallery’s framer and assistant,” Lambert recalls, “a role that I diligently performed for the following 17 years.”
Specializing in 19th-century Victorian paintings, Lambert’s passion for art propelled him to participate in numerous international art and antiques fairs annually. After venturing into another dealership, he embarked on an ambitious endeavor, establishing his own gallery, Lambert Fine Art, in the quaint British town of Stratford-upon-Avon.
A Unique and Emotive Commodity
“The art business,” Lambert elaborates, “differs significantly from traditional marketplaces. Art acquisitions are frequently propelled by emotional connections rather than practical necessities. Individuals yearn for a profound encounter with these works; they become coveted objects of desire and aspirations. It’s this emotional attachment that distinguishes art dealing from other industries.”
Lambert underscores the importance of employing a skilled art dealer instead of relying solely on auctions. “Selling through a dealer can safeguard the value of an artwork. If a painting fails to meet its reserve price at auction, it can tarnish its reputation and diminish its perceived worth,” he explains.
A Dynamic Market Embracing New Visions
The art dealing landscape is not without its inherent challenges, but it also presents opportunities for bold new entrants like Olya Johnson. Together with Natalie Vosloo, Johnson co-founded Relic, an innovative art and interiors business that recently exhibited at the renowned Decorative Fair in London.
Recognizing the potential for fresh perspectives, the fair organizers welcomed Relic’s participation. “We realized that the business needs new blood,” Johnson remarks. “Our audacity and a supportive industry paved the way for this incredible experience.”
Multifaceted Careers in the Art World
‘Multitasking’ takes on a new meaning in the world of art dealing. Many practitioners, like Johnson and Vosloo, seamlessly integrate their dealership responsibilities with thriving day jobs. “Young dealers often juggle multiple roles,” Johnson observes. “Art dealing runs parallel to their primary careers, fueled by a passion that consumes them.”
Tom Rooth, a former director at Christie’s, exemplifies this versatile approach. As an art dealer specializing in 19th and early 20th-century paintings, Rooth also captivates audiences with his remarkable pencil drawings depicting animals and marine life on ceramics. Jack Roberts, an accomplished artist and dealer, boasts a diverse portfolio that encompasses colorful embroidered wall art and curating exhibitions featuring renowned contemporary artists.
Embracing the Thrills and Uncertainties
While the allure of art dealing is undeniable, it’s essential to acknowledge its inherent risks. Dealers typically possess substantial inventories of artworks, often without knowing when these treasures will find buyers. “At any given moment, I may own between 70 to 100 artworks,” reveals Lambert. “Larger dealerships can amass over 1,000 pieces.”
Diseln identified ‘bread-and-butter’ selections of artworks that experience consistent demand. However, the occasional “golden nugget” may also surface, presenting both opportunities and dilemmas. “Determining the optimal time to part with these exceptional pieces can be a delicate balancing act,” he reflects.
Navigating the Evolving Print Market
Earlier this year, Lambert acquired a coveted limited edition print by the enigmatic street artist Banksy. While Banksy’s originals command exorbitant prices at auction, Lambert notes significant fluctuations in the print market. “The market ebbs and flows, and daily fluctuations can impact pricing,” he explains.
Despite the inherent challenges, the art dealing profession continues to captivate individuals drawn to its unique blend of aesthetics, risk-taking, and the ability to foster profound emotional connections through the power of art.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
