The Difference Between Art Advisors and Art Consultants

There are many roles and responsibilities in the art industry. Many of them, especially if you are new or unfamiliar with this industry, can sometimes be confusing. Two such roles are those of an art advisor and an art consultant. The role of an art advisor and art consultant can sometimes be used interchangeably. However they are two distinctively different roles with specific functions and responsibilities.

The Art Advisor

An art advisor is an industry professional who specialises in advising collectors on investment decisions relating to art. This can include conducting research, attending auctions, determining authenticity–especially on high-end investment pieces, and evaluating whether an artwork and/or artist has investment value.

As defined by Sotheby's Institute of Art, "an art advisor is a connoisseur—well versed in the world of art, both past and present, possessing the necessary skills to evaluate a work, attribute its authorship, determine its authenticity, and give a judgment of its quality."

"Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style." — Billy Baldwin

The Art Consultant

Unlike an art advisor, an art consultant, typically works with contemporary art and artists producing art on a project-by-project basis. They may work with Interior Designers, and/or Collectors to curate and commission art for interior projects such as residential homes, shopping malls, or small through to large public sector projects.

What Are The Key Differences?

The critical difference between an art advisor and art consultant lies in their focus areas.

An art advisor focuses on the strategic development of art collections and has their primary emphasis on investment. This means art advisors are typically involved in the acquisition of high-end art pieces, providing advice based on their extensive knowledge of art and artists and their current market value.

An art consultant on the other hand is project-focused. They will typically have interior design or styling experience, an eye for design, exceptional spacial awareness and a perfect understanding of the client's vision. They are able to build project layouts specifying and supervising how and where the art will be installed.

In summary, art advisors and consultants play crucial roles in the art world. They each offer unique services and expertise, and their roles can often complement each other. Whether you're looking to build a long-term art collection or curate art for a specific project, understanding the difference between these two roles can help you make the right choice for your art needs.