AN OPINION ON ART CONSULTANCY
By: Dr. Khushboo Bhardwaj, Advocate; Art Expert;
Proprietor: A2Z LAW www.a2zlaw.in Mob: 9871812305
Dr. Khushboo Bhardwaj, an art expert and lawyer, recognizes the significance of art consultancy in today’s world. Art consultancy plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between artists and collectors, and it offers valuable guidance and expertise to both parties. India has always been associated with various types of art. Since the time of our earliest civilization in the Indus valley, the subcontinent has been recognized for having craftsmen of outstanding ability and invention. Each invader brought local traditions and design elements with them, which local artisans merged and mixed into design elements that we today associate with the Indian subcontinent.
The Indian art market is a $2 billion industry that includes craftspeople, weavers, tribal and modern artists, tribal and contemporary artists, and tribal and contemporary artists. Craftsmen produce 60% of their work for the domestic market and 40% for the global market. According to Dr. Bhardwaj, most artisans work with designers and purchasing firms to export their goods and have little price control. In recent years, there has been a spike in demand in handmade art from the home market.
Brands have begun to focus on reviving traditional and dying crafts. There are established galleries dealing in masters, modern art, photography, and so on in many large cities, and they give regular events, including educational ones, for their admirers. Auction houses have gained in popularity as a technique of acquiring artwork during the previous five years. These auction houses run regular sales and schedule their events to coincide with the holidays. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are a recurring theme in the art world, with many Indian artists relying on NFT sales to popularize their work.
India has been very concerned about conserving its various old art forms and assisting craftspeople in rural areas of the country. Each state has a handicrafts emporium that buys works from local artisans and sells them in its retail stores. These handicraft emporiums are frequented by both locals and visitors. To protect the interests of artisans, they source ethically and set fixed tariffs.
By 2022, the scope and sales of the art sector will have expanded dramatically. The Indian Art Fair in May kicked out the year on a bright note, announcing record sales in 2022. The budgeted allocation for the Culture Ministry for 2022-2023 has grown by 11.9% over the previous year, with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) receiving 10.8 billion rupees, or 35% of the total amount. Advances in the support and development of artistic talent, such as the formation of digital artist residency schemes, were also made in 2021.
Art consultancy serves as a platform where artists can receive professional advice and support to enhance their artistic journey. Consultants provide feedback, critique, and guidance to artists, helping them develop their skills, explore new avenues, and refine their artistic vision. This guidance is valuable for artists seeking to improve their techniques, experiment with different mediums, or explore new artistic concepts.
On the other hand, art consultancy also benefits collectors and art enthusiasts. The art market can be complex and overwhelming, with a vast range of artworks available. A consultant can help collectors navigate this intricate landscape by providing insights on different art movements, artists, and trends. They can offer objective assessments of artworks, helping collectors make informed decisions based on their preferences, budget, and investment goals.
Art consultants also assist in building and managing art collections. They can curate exhibitions, advise on the acquisition and sale of artworks, and provide guidance on conservation and preservation. Consultants have a deep understanding of the art market, allowing them to identify emerging artists, spot potential investment opportunities, and ensure the long-term value of a collection.
Moreover, art consultancy can facilitate collaborations between artists and businesses. Consultants can assist in selecting and commissioning artworks for corporate spaces, ensuring that the art aligns with the company’s brand and aesthetic. This integration of art into the corporate environment not only enhances the visual appeal of the space but also fosters creativity, inspiration, and a positive work culture.
In summary, art consultancy, as recognized by Dr. Khushboo Bhardwaj, is significant for both artists and collectors. The guidance, expertise, and services provided by art consultants contribute to the growth and success of artists while helping collectors navigate the art market and build meaningful collections.