How to Hire a Professional Art Handler: A Comprehensive Guide

Art handling, as a discipline, stands at the nexus of preservation and presentation, delicately balancing the need to protect artistic treasures while ensuring they can be enjoyed by a wide array of audiences. This task is far from trivial, requiring specialized acumen and careful attention to safeguard our cultural heritage. This post aims to elucidate the process of hiring a professional art handler, a role that is often overlooked by the public, yet is integral to the art world.

The first step in the hiring process is discerning what exactly an art handler does. The role is multi-faceted and involves a plethora of tasks related to the care, movement, and installation of artworks. This includes inventorying and cataloguing, designing custom packaging, considering conservation needs, transportation logistics, and even exhibition installation.

The art handler’s role embodies a unique synthesis of practical skills and theoretical knowledge, thus a solid understanding of art history, materials, and conservation science is key. They must also possess impressive dexterity, physical strength, and precision, given the nature of the fragile and often valuable objects they handle.

When choosing an art handler, the first crucial factor is their experience. The flux of variables in handling art – different materials, sizes, values, transportation conditions – requires a handler that has encountered a broad range of situations. Verifying their credentials and references is of utmost importance. It also pays to delve into the specifics of their past experiences. For example, a handler with a background in sculpture might not be the optimal choice if you're dealing with fragile watercolour paintings.

Moreover, the handler's knowledge of current best practices in conservation science is pivotal. The art world is continually evolving, and with it, the methods and materials for preservation are also changing. Therefore, it is not only important that the handler is well-versed in the latest developments in the field, but also they're able to adapt to these changes and implement them in their work.

Assessing the potential art handler's technical competencies is another essential factor. This includes their ability to create protective packaging for transport, their knowledge of installation techniques, and even their proficiency in using databases for inventorying and cataloguing.

Geographical considerations also come into play. The transportation logistics can be complicated and costly, so a handler based in your vicinity might be optimal. However, an international relocation might necessitate a handler with the necessary expertise and connections to facilitate a smooth transition across borders.

Furthermore, communication skills should not be underestimated. The handler will need to liaise with a variety of stakeholders, including the client, other art professionals, and possibly customs officials or insurance agents. Clear, timely, and diplomatic communication is key, especially when dealing with high-stakes transactions and sensitive materials.

The hiring process should take into account the client's specific needs and the handler's proficiencies. An initial consultation will provide the opportunity for an open dialogue to ensure that both parties' expectations align. Following the Pareto Principle, 80% of the success of an art handling assignment can often be attributed to the planning and preparation stage; therefore, a meticulous and detail-oriented approach is crucial.

Finally, the cost of hiring an art handler is a significant factor. The complexity of the task, the value of the artwork, and the handler’s expertise will all influence the cost. However, hiring a competent and experienced professional can be considered an investment in the artwork’s longevity.

In conclusion, hiring a professional art handler is a complex process that requires careful consideration of various factors. It is crucial that the handler has a broad range of experience, good communication skills, and an adaptable approach that can cater to the unique requirements of each project. By applying these principles, one can ensure the preservation of art for the enjoyment of future generations.

Art handling, as a discipline, stands at the nexus of preservation and presentation, delicately balancing the need to protect artistic treasures while ensuring they can be enjoyed by a wide array of audiences.