Project

King County Library System Art Assessment

King County Library System (KCLS) has built a large and varied art collection over its decades as a non-profit institution serving the most populous county in Washington State. The Lumiere Group was engaged to review existing artworks, complete insurance valuations and facilitate appraisals. With a view toward the future, our work includes reviewing art collection policy and procedures, assessing and identifying areas for artwork research, and advising on artworks for buildings undergoing tenant improvement projects. By the close of our three-year engagement with KCLS, we will have enhanced documentation for existing artworks and created a clear path for the acquisition and care of new artworks.  

Details

Location:
King County, WA
Project Type:
Valuation and Inventory
Client:
King County Library System
Services Provided:
Collections Stewardship, Curatorial Guidance

Highlights

  • Partnered with client to identify appropriate areas for research 

 

  • Assessed artworks to create informed valuations of the collection for insurance purposes 

 

  • Reviewed art collection guiding documents and provided recommendations for fortifying policy and procedures 

 

  • Assessed and documented provenance of select artworks to provide information to support next steps for display and care 

 

  • Made recommendations for artwork acquisitions in alignment with new construction goals 

Overview

King County Library System (KCLS) has a collection of artwork built over decades and spread across a large geographic area. The Lumiere Group was engaged by KCLS in 2026 for a multi-part project to unfold over the course of three years. The initial goal was to assess existing artworks for the purposes of valuation in compliance with insurance requirements. We conducted valuations on the majority of the collection and facilitated formal appraisals for high-value artworks. Our arts professionals documented provenance to guide the collection into the future with intentionality, while defining priorities around institutional values. In the expansion phase of the project, The Lumiere Group will identify artists and advise on acquisitions based on our knowledge of the KCLS collection and its ongoing goals. All policy work occurred in preparation for this next phase of the project. 

"Jaynes Appraisals values opportunities to partner and collaborate with The Lumiere Group. Their experienced and knowledgeable staff manage projects with the highest levels of communication, with clear expectations, goals, and timelines. Their expertise is apparent at each stage of a project, supporting complex situations with grace and professionalism."
- Pamela Jaynes, ISA CAPP, Certified Member of the International Society of Appraisers
  • 1/2: Artwork by Tony Angell
  • 2/2: Artwork by Katy Stone

Next Project:

Museum of Northwest Art: Emergency Preparedness

La Conner, WA | Existing Plan Assessment and Improvement

The Lumiere Group assessed the Museum of Northwest Art’s (MoNA’s) existing Emergency Preparedness manual to recommend upgrades to their process throughout all phases of a potential natural or human-caused disaster. Our work focused on key priorities for this small art museum which is located in a region prone to high winds, heavy rain, wildfires, floods, and seismic events. We strengthened MoNa’s plan by laying out clear strategies, knowing that planning can help marshal limited resources efficiently in a disaster.

View Project