Investing in Art: Investments in fine art, such as paintings, drawings, prints and sculpture, are increasingly recommended to high net worth clients (private clients) as part of a diversified portfolio. The theory is that prices of fine art do not move in concert with those of financial assets, commodities or real estate, and thus can reduce portfolio risk. Fine art is among the types of investments often referred to "alternative investments," that is, alternatives to more basic investment vehicles such as bank deposits and publicly-traded securities or investment funds.
Financial Careers for Art Experts: The vast majority of financial advisors are completely unqualified to offer advice regarding investments in fine art. Instead, financial services firms with private banking divisions that suggest fine art as an investment need people with expertise as:
- Art Buyers
- Art Dealers
- Art Appraisers
- Art Curators
Such art experts may be hired as employees or engaged as consultants by the financial services firms in question. Accordingly, the financial services industry can be an unexpected source of employment, consulting engagements or clients for people in the fine arts field.
