Provenance for Artists - What is it?

[@laurenkellyartist]

Yes!! I just made an instagram reel the other day about the importance of spreadsheets for artists. Thank you for talking about this stuff, Brainard. It's so helpful. ❤

[@rachelpieters784]

I'm thankful I was watching the wonderful show Fake or Fortune when I came back to art three years ago. They spoke constantly about the importance of provenance and I was able to see in real life applications how important it is to keep track of. I've kept a spreadsheet of all my work and not only does it make it easy for me to keep track of my own work (believe me, you will forget) but also I always wonder if it will be useful to my family or collectors in the future. You never know! As a side note: Vermeer was a hobbyist. I'm sure he never knew how important his work would become and there may still be some out there. If he'd kept a list, imagine how wonderful that would be to help track down all his work. An important topic, Brainard. Important stuff to know.

[@soulpriest1866]

What about an examination of producing art during war? A war-time artist. The Provenance value of war time pieces seem to be astronomical in monetary value. The pieces that survive, that is.

[@the-andre]

Thank you Brainard as always. Your information is invaluable. Also, if I may - if you can afford it, is to engage a specialist photographer who is skilled in documenting artwork. The value of doing this, as one art teacher aptly told me - “it is the DNA of your work”. It is also vital to retain the copyright to your work for publishing reprints and self-promotion when you sell the artwork. The digital files produced allow you tremendous flexibility and control when your work exits your door from a sell. Unfortunately, there aren’t many photographer/services that provide this vital need. Shout out to Paul Takeuchi in Brooklyn, New York is one. I had a studio session with him. He is excellent. Very thoughtful and thorough. He provides various file sizes and color correction on your work.

[@davidandclyde]

Excellent thank you for your time

[@certseal1451]

Hi Brainard thanks for making this video! 100% agree with you on provenance. We are actually in the process of building our app which helps keep track of provenance as well as provide many more benefits not just for collectors but artists aswell. Provenance provides a huge value for collectors but it can also help artists as well.

[@dawnyoshimura1171]

Besides the date, title, dimensions, media and collector, should I note Sketches, places exhibited, awards, press clippings, digital image? Should I number everything? I see some artists write a number on the backs of their work. Lastly, what about work that gets reworked to a new work? Thanks for your hints in these videos

[@dawnyoshimura1171]

I rewatched and I guess I got my answer, yes.

[@soulpriest1866]

Thanks

[@havenpersonalcare7968]

Greetings; I recently collect historical pieces including autographs of high ranking generals; and military equipment that are very rare; unfortunately some did not have provenance; would it be worthy to start a letter of provenance? Thank you.

[@MelchorMoore]

I guess I better stop selling my artwork to drunk strangers in the bar 🤣