Art advisor Suzy R. Locke has been using her unique talents to assemble sophisticated art collections for clients spanning four decades.

Based in Oakland, California, Suzy’s company, Suzy R. Locke and Associates has skillfully advised hospital and healthcare organizations, Fortune 500 companies, and government agencies, just to name a few, on myriad art projects of all shapes and sizes. Suzy is also an accredited art appraiser and has shared her expertise on the subject of collecting as a lecturer at many highly esteemed art schools, including the San Francisco Art Institute, John F. Kennedy University and the University of California at Santa Barbara.

As we continue our series on the role of art consultants, we were pleased that Suzy was able to share her experiences with us, and shed light on what you should look for and expect when hiring an art consultant.

What is Your Background?

I have a BA in Art/Art History with a minor in Film History.

What Project Are You Currently Working on?

I am working with a private client in NYC and another client In Carson City, NV for their homes. I am also working on several art appraisals.

What Should Someone Consider When Hiring an Art Consultant?

That they are professionally trained with a degree in Arts Management, or Art History, and have a very good understanding of the different art making techniques.

What Does an Art Consultant Offer That is Different Than What Can Be Achieved Procuring Art on Your Own?

A broad knowledge of the art market, special access to artists studios, negotiating the best prices for the client, access to art fair with guided tours and knowledge of the artists on display.

What is One Thing You Wish People Knew About Working With an Art Consultant?

That we are independent of any galleries, artists, publishers or auction houses. We have no conflict of interest and work ONLY on behalf of our clients.

What Should People Expect From Working With an Art Consultant?

A relationship that is built on trust, a desire to educate the client, not just sell, sell, sell.

What Has Been Your Favorite Project and Why?

A large investment firm. We developed several themes which then guided the types of art we purchased based on the themes.

Tell Me About a Project Where Something Surprising Happened.

Sometimes the employees become attached to the art placed in their area. When we want to rotate the art they can become possessive and not want to have something different.

Tell Me About Your Most Unique Installation.

We had Queen Anne tables with articulated legs cast in bronze appearing to be jumping off the roof of the building and busting through railings and running across the plaza. We had to use huge cranes to place the table on the roof.

I’m Curious About Your Work With Public Agencies Such as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Veterans Affairs. Is There Anything You Can Share About Those Projects?

The VA had a small budget (this was many years ago). We chose different themes for each area, and enlarged photos of monuments that would be meaningful the former service individuals. We also commissioned a large spread eagle in bronze. It was not my choice of stance for the Eagle, but once it was installed, I watched how the veterans responded to the sculpture, and decided it was the correct choice for the audience.

Is There Anything Else You Would Like to Share?

The most important advice to a client is to make certain that they are working with an art advisor who is independent and NOT attached to any gallery, etc. To affiliate with The Association of Professional Art Advisors and to abide by their code of ethics.

Many thanks to Suzy for taking the time to share her wisdom as it relates to working with an art consultant.

You can learn more about the role of an art consultant, or commissioning custom art, on our website. You can also view new original works of art weekly at UGallery.com