Tacoma Public Library Art Valuations
The Lumiere Group was asked by the Tacoma Public Library (TPL) to assess and complete valuations for artworks. Because TPL does not maintain an official art collection, this work included the identification of historical artworks, most of which were housed in the Northwest Room and in TPL archives. Our team inventoried and collected data on the identified artworks and partnered with the library to prioritize which artworks should receive valuations. We researched the artwork using market data and TPL records and provided actionable reports to the client.
Details
Highlights
- Coordinated with Tacoma Public Library staff to facilitate access to artworks throughout the institution
- Applied standard definitions of fine art and ephemera to partner with client to determine what should be assessed
- Completed onsite assessment to capture physical data and photographs
- Research and reporting: converted data into standardized, digitized format
Overview
In the case of unofficial art collections like that of the Tacoma Public Library (TPL), data is often unevenly collected or simply lost to time as artworks are added by a range of parties over decades, through donations or one-off acquisitions. Creating a snapshot of an institution’s art holdings is not only important for insurance purposes; it can also be used for future planning. In a first for the TPL, The Lumiere Group was engaged to assess and complete valuations for a number of historical artworks. We identified artworks housed in the historic Northwest Room and in TPL archives and completed onsite work to inventory and collect data on the artworks. We partnered with the TPL team to prioritize which artworks should receive valuations, operating with efficiency to provide maximum benefit to the client. We researched the artworks using market data and existing library records and provided reports to the client which provide value and establish a baseline record that can inform any future plans the library may develop.
Next Project:
King Country 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.
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