How to become an art appraiser

Is becoming an art appraiser right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do art appraisers do?

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How to become an Art Appraiser

Becoming an art appraiser typically involves a combination of education, practical experience, and certification. Here are the steps you can follow to pursue a career in art appraisal:

  • Obtain a Relevant Education: Start by earning a degree in a relevant field, such as art history, fine arts, or a related discipline. This foundational knowledge is crucial for understanding various art movements, styles, and the historical context of different artworks. Some universities also offer specific programs or courses focused on art appraisal.
  • Gain Experience in the Art Field: Practical experience is essential in this profession. Seek internships or entry-level positions at galleries, museums, auction houses, or art consulting firms. Working alongside experienced appraisers or art professionals can provide valuable insights into the appraisal process and the art market.
  • Develop Specialized Knowledge: As an art appraiser, it’s vital to have expertise in specific areas, such as contemporary art, antiques, or specific artists. Continuously educate yourself about trends, market values, and techniques used in art valuation. Attending workshops, seminars, and art fairs can also help broaden your knowledge.
  • Consider Certification: While not always required, obtaining certification from a recognized organization can enhance your credibility as an art appraiser. Organizations such as the American Society of Appraisers (ASA) or the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) offer certification programs that include coursework and examinations.
  • Build a Professional Network: Establishing a network in the art world is important for finding job opportunities and clients. Attend art exhibitions, join professional associations, and engage with other art professionals to build connections that can help you advance in your career.

Certifications
Certifications for art appraisers can significantly boost your credibility and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Here are some of the most recognized certifications:

  • American Society of Appraisers (ASA): The ASA offers a Personal Property designation with a specialization in Fine Art. To become accredited, you need to complete courses, pass exams, and fulfill experience requirements. ASA members are required to maintain high ethical standards and complete continuing education to keep their certification current.
  • International Society of Appraisers (ISA): ISA provides an Art Appraisal certification through its Fine Art Program. This certification involves extensive coursework, including an appraisal studies program and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training. ISA-certified appraisers must meet ongoing education requirements to remain up to date.
  • Appraisers Association of America (AAA): Specializing in fine and decorative arts, the AAA offers certification for art appraisers with a focus on connoisseurship and market knowledge. Certification requires passing exams, maintaining a portfolio of appraisals, and adhering to professional standards and ethics.
  • Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): RICS provides an internationally recognized qualification for appraisers, particularly for those specializing in arts and antiques. The qualification process involves completing courses, gaining relevant work experience, and undergoing an assessment of professional competence (APC).
  • Certified Appraisers Guild of America (CAGA): CAGA offers certification for appraisers across various fields, including art. Their training program focuses on appraisal methods, report writing, and valuation standards. While their certification may not be as in-depth as others, it can be an entry point for those starting in the profession.