The Art Elevator

In this episode we speak with returning guest Tanzy Ward, who is a scholar, book author, educator, antique jewelry dealer, & historic preservationist. Her book publications include Hidden Legacies: African Presence in European Antiques and Unsung Portraits: Anonymous Images of Black Victorians and Early 20th Century Ancestors. Her second historical non-fiction book Unsung Portraits was selected as a 2022 Contingent Book List Award for Historian Authors.  Tanzy's passion for Black material culture and heirlooms has presented her with the opportunity to be featured in critically acclaimed exhibits, including Yale University's 2022 show Allegories, Renditions, & A Small Nation of Women.  Tanzy's connoisseurship training includes the Asheford Institute of Antiques and she is a proud member of the Asheford Associate Membership Program & The American Society of Jewelry Historians. Her expertise and scholarship have been featured in various decorative arts and jewelry publications, including National Jeweler.  In this episode we discuss: -       The inspiration and process of writing her second book -       Tanzy’s scholarship, and how she actively engages with artifacts of self-representation in portraits, in fashion, and in jewelry to illuminate and give voice back to individuals who haven't always been included in historical scholarship -       Tanzy’s philosophy about being a conduit to steward the perspectives of "unnamed ancestors" as she describes them in her book -       How she utilizes modern platforms like Instagram for positive educational impact, creating beautiful content that also shares hidden stories -       How Tanzy’s work has expanded into new historical eras such as Mid Century Modern with her "Modern Black Glamour" themed posts Links mentioned in the interview: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanzyward_antiques/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanzyward/ Books:  https://zanathiajewelry.com/collections/tanzy-ward-books Zanathia Jewelry:  https://zanathiajewelry.com/   Tanzy's first episode on The Art Elevator Podcast: https://www.larissawild.com/podcasts/the-art-elevator/episodes/2147617546

In this episode of The Art Elevator Podcast, Sarah Reeder and Larissa Wild speak with Vanessa and Alexander Wendl of Toad Atelier on their exhibition at Larissa Wild Fine Art: Selections from the Toad Atelier Collection. This show will feature 35 rare artifacts from their collection of over 3,000 objects that highlight the history and impact of mid-century modern design. Through this discussion, Vanessa and Alexander delve into their collecting journey, share their collecting philosophy which centers on three core principles: preservation, sharing, and enjoyment, and highlight how sharing their collection brings joy and fosters connections with like-minded individuals. The episode is rich with anecdotes about specific pieces in the collection, such as the large-scale photograph of a New York scene and the Herman Miller Collections prototype catalogue. Alexander shares his profound connection to Irving Harper's work, explaining that Harper's creative process and the calming nature of his paper sculptures serve as a source of inspiration for Alexander's own artistic pursuits. The Wendls emphasize the therapeutic nature of creation and the importance of engaging with art for personal fulfillment and relaxation. Alexander and Vanessa's story serves as an inspiring example of how passion, preservation, and creativity can come together to create a rich and fulfilling journey in the world of art and design.

In this episode, Aubrey Catrone explains the importance of provenance, defining it as the history of ownership of an art object from its creation to the present day. She highlights the necessity of distinguishing between stated and verified provenance, emphasizing the need for supporting documentation. Aubrey discusses challenges such as the rapid pace of art transactions and the importance of trusting sources in the art market. She advises collectors to proactively ask for documentation, conduct risk assessments, and digitize their records. New technologies like blockchain and AI are explored, with Aubrey noting their potential and limitations. She outlines the three-pronged process of verifying authenticity through scientific testing, provenance, and connoisseurship. And the part we love most: Aubrey highlights the emotional and historical connection that provenance provides, enriching the collector's experience and deepening their connection to the artwork. Aubrey Catrone is an international art historian, appraiser, and provenance researcher. Aubrey earned an MA in the History of Art from University College London, specializing in the documented histories of art objects. With an art gallery and academic research background, Catrone founded Proper Provenance, LLC to provide her clients with the tools, not only to historically contextualize art, but also to shed light on attribution and legal title within the international art market. She is an Accredited Member of the Appraisers Association of America with a specialization in Impressionist & Modern Art. Catrone has researched artworks including paintings, artefacts, works on paper, prints, and sculptures spanning the fourth century B.C.E. to the twenty-first century C.E. She has appeared as a guest expert on the History Channel and published her scholarship in a variety of publications including RICS Journals and the Journal of Art Crime. Learn More About Aubrey Catrone: Aubrey's company Proper Provenance LLC: https://www.properprovenance.com   Connect with Aubrey on Instagram @properprovenancellc Articles written by Aubrey: "Risky Business: How Provenance Can Influence Collecting" in Worthwhile Magazine   "The Role of Punctuation in Assessing History:  Provenance Formatting Explained" in Worthwhile Magazine   "Due Diligence in the Digital Era:  A Case Study of Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot's Les Petits Dénicheurs," in Worthwhile Magazine   "Why Provenance Is Critical for Assigning Opinions of Value," in RICS Journals  

In this episode, Brooke Kuhnhusen shares her evolving understanding of creativity, initially seeing herself as a psychologist engaging in art, but now embracing her identity as a creative person. She discusses the therapeutic connection of creativity, highlighting its role in connecting with the deepest self through compassion, curiosity, connectedness, and creativity. Brooke emphasizes the importance of joy in the creative process, describing it as a vital, fun energy that has the ability to transform those who engage. She recounts her personal experience with land art, overcoming self-doubt, and finding satisfaction in the creative process itself.  Brooke also explores cultural perspectives on creativity, particularly in ceremony and ritual, and the significance of giving oneself permission to be creative. She highlights the power of co-creation and community in amplifying joy and connection, viewing creativity as a collaborative and exponential force. Lastly, she underscores the natural world's role in inspiring and holding our joy and courage in creative endeavors. About the speaker: Dr. Brooke Kuhnhausen is a deeply creative soul who embraces explorations of connection and healing across varied landscapes ranging from academic classrooms to treeside in a forest.  Dr. Kuhnhausen values creativity and collaboration as portals of transformation and imagination so vitally needed for new ways of being together and caring for the Earth in our time of climate change. She is a psychologist who practices depth and relational therapy in her private practice and also trains and consults with other therapists, teaching in various graduate programs and therapy institutes. Dr. Kuhnhausen's climate justice advocacy includes her participation in ecofeminist art exhibitions, including her absolutely stunning land art installation last summer at the Verdancy Project in Oregon.  Her passionate centering of beauty and connection as north stars for inspiring positive change has personally shifted co-host Sarah Reeder's thinking away from climate despair many times.  It is such an honor to be able to share her unique gift of perspective on the podcast as we talk about creativity as a force for healing. Dr. Kuhnhausen can be reached at B.kuhnhausen@gmail.com for inquiries regarding workshops, speaking engagements, creative collaborations, and other opportunities. Spring Creek Luminaries Podcast   Terra Incognita Altar of Belonging   The Verdancy Project Terra Incognita Exhibition

Welcome back to the Art Elevator podcast! Today, we delve into the world of Artifcts with co-founders Heather Nickerson and Ellen Goodwin. Heather, CEO, shares her heartfelt journey of inheriting memories after her mother's passing, igniting the creation of Artifcts. Ellen, CSO, emphasizes the platform's simplicity in capturing, preserving, and sharing stories behind cherished items. Their new initiative, Artifcts for Professionals, aims to revolutionize collection management. Join us as we explore the human-centric approach to cataloging legacies with Artifcts.

Sarah Reeder riffs today about how we forget that there is an inner transformation that happens within us when we express ourselves creatively, that can be very, very positive. It's totally independent from the outcome of whether anyone else likes what we've made. We have changed ourselves.

Creativity belongs to humanity - it's innate in all of us. Activating that creativity is a gift not only to yourself, but an inspiration to others around you. Join Sarah Reeder and I in this week by week game of finding your creativity. We make it simple, accessible and non-intimidating.

Creativity belongs to humanity - it's innate in all of us. Activating that creativity is a gift not only to yourself, but an inspiration to others around you. Join us in this week by week game of finding your creativity. We make it simple, accessible and non-intimidating.

Creativity belongs to humanity - it's innate in all of us. Activating that creativity is a gift not only to yourself, but an inspiration to others around you. Join us in this week by week game of finding your creativity. We make it simple, accessible and non-intimidating.

We hear over and over in the news about issues surrounding the estates of artists and how family members or caretakers are having control over the artwork and sales. There are lawsuits, family discord, issues with heirs mismanaging the remaining collection of artworks and stories of others involved in the artist’s careers or at the end of their lives taking advantage of the artist’s success. Joining me today is Kelly Juhasz, principal of Fine Art Appraisal and Services, to talk about how artists can better plan for their own legacy to ensure that their reputations and remaining artworks are handled properly and reduce the opportunity for mismanagement. In this episode Kelly will answer questions such as: What is artist legacy planning? Why should artist’s care about what happens to their work after they pass? What are some of the biggest issues that Kelly has seen in working with artist’s estates What can living artists do to start to prepare for their own legacy?

Many family members of artists find themselves with a new full-time job if not a full second career when the artist in the family passes away and no concrete plans were made to deal with not only the artwork left behind but also the artist’s reputation and market. Joining me today is Kelly Juhasz, principal of Fine Art Appraisal and Services, who will talk to us about dealing with the estates of artists and the services her company provides around legacy planning for artists. In this episode Kelly will answer questions such as: What do family members need to know about working with the legacy of a family member artist? What are these specific tasks that need to be done in order to build and protect the legacy and artwork of an artist? What practical tasks can the families of artists do to get ready or start building the artist’s legacy? Learn more about Kelly Juhasz and her services here: www.fineartappraisalandservices.com 

In this episode of the Art Elevator Podcast, Larissa interviews Doug Bort on Art and Money Laundering. In this third episode of a three part series on art crime, they discuss: - What is restitution? - What are some scenarios and how does the process work for restitution? - What is it like to go undercover, posing as a middleman? Founder and Managing Partner of Odyssey Global Consulting, LLC, Doug Bort spent twenty-one years as a Special Agent with the United States Customs Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Doug is a Subject Matter Expert in the investigation of art and cultural property crimes. During his tenure with Homeland Security Investigations, Doug represented the United States in international investigations around the world and was heavily involved in United States national policy decisions and international diplomacy. With a proven record of successfully leading complex international investigations, his work has resulted in the recovery and return of over $3 million worth of cultural property to its rightful owners. Notably, Doug developed and operated an extremely effective undercover platform which targeted the illegal sales of cultural property, art and antiquities, including sales that funded international terrorist organizations. He was also instrumental in cultivating, developing, and conducting training for other Special Agents and law enforcement agencies, both in the United States and abroad, pertaining to the investigation of art and cultural property crimes. Now in the private sector, Doug uses his vast knowledge and extensive experience to provide expert services to museums, private collectors, insurance companies and other individual clients. Learn more about Doug Bort: Odyssey Consulting  

In this episode of the Art Elevator Podcast, Larissa interviews Doug Bort on Art and Money Laundering. In this first episode of a three part series on art crime, they discuss: - What is the difference between a fake and a forgery? - What is the process for figuring out if a painting is fake? - Some case studies with the different motives behind each of them. Founder and Managing Partner of Odyssey Global Consulting, LLC, Doug Bort spent twenty-one years as a Special Agent with the United States Customs Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Doug is a Subject Matter Expert in the investigation of art and cultural property crimes. During his tenure with Homeland Security Investigations, Doug represented the United States in international investigations around the world and was heavily involved in United States national policy decisions and international diplomacy. With a proven record of successfully leading complex international investigations, his work has resulted in the recovery and return of over $3 million worth of cultural property to its rightful owners. Notably, Doug developed and operated an extremely effective undercover platform which targeted the illegal sales of cultural property, art and antiquities, including sales that funded international terrorist organizations. He was also instrumental in cultivating, developing, and conducting training for other Special Agents and law enforcement agencies, both in the United States and abroad, pertaining to the investigation of art and cultural property crimes. Now in the private sector, Doug uses his vast knowledge and extensive experience to provide expert services to museums, private collectors, insurance companies and other individual clients. Learn more about Doug Bort: Odyssey Consulting                

In this episode of the Art Elevator Podcast, Larissa interviews Doug Bort on Art and Money Laundering. In this first episode of a three part series on art crime, they discuss: - What money laundering is - How art is used in money laundering - Some case studies and surprising statistics on art and money laundering Founder and Managing Partner of Odyssey Global Consulting, LLC, Doug Bort spent twenty-one years as a Special Agent with the United States Customs Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Doug is a Subject Matter Expert in the investigation of art and cultural property crimes. During his tenure with Homeland Security Investigations, Doug represented the United States in international investigations around the world and was heavily involved in United States national policy decisions and international diplomacy. With a proven record of successfully leading complex international investigations, his work has resulted in the recovery and return of over $3 million worth of cultural property to its rightful owners. Notably, Doug developed and operated an extremely effective undercover platform which targeted the illegal sales of cultural property, art and antiquities, including sales that funded international terrorist organizations. He was also instrumental in cultivating, developing, and conducting training for other Special Agents and law enforcement agencies, both in the United States and abroad, pertaining to the investigation of art and cultural property crimes. Now in the private sector, Doug uses his vast knowledge and extensive experience to provide expert services to museums, private collectors, insurance companies and other individual clients.

Heather Bhandari (she/her) is the Co-Founder of Art World Learning (AWL): a subscription-based, online education platform to help those in the creative sector thrive by making intelligent business and financial decisions. It grew from a business and financial health conference for visual artists, named Art World Conference (AWC), which debuted in NYC in April of 2019, Los Angeles in February of 2020, and online in October of 2020. She and her AWL co-founder, Dexter Wimberly, were listed in the Observer's "Arts Power 50: Changemakers Shaping the Art World in 2019." Heather is also an independent curator; a co-founder of the project-based curatorial team and podcast, The Remix; a trustee of Art Omi (an international artist residency in Ghent, NY); and an adjunct lecturer at Brown University where she teaches professional practice to visual arts majors. The second edition of her book, ART/WORK, was published by Simon and Schuster in October of 2017.  From 2000 to 2016 Heather was a director of Mixed Greens, a commercial gallery in Chelsea where she curated well over one hundred exhibitions while managing a roster of nearly two-dozen emerging to mid-career artists. Most recently, she was the Director of Exhibitions at Smack Mellon, a nonprofit in Brooklyn. Heather received a BA from Brown University and an MFA from Pennsylvania State University where she recently received  their College of Arts and Architecture Distinguished Alumni Award. Her career began at contemporary galleries Sonnabend and Lehmann Maupin, both in New York City. - The reality for most artists is they need to run a business as well as create masterpieces, and often incredible artists aren’t wired for the former skillset. Heather covers some of the fundamentals an artist needs to have a viable career from a business standpoint - Learn the benefit to society at large from providing this education for artists - While we can question the root problems that have plagued “starving” artists in making a living to survive and thrive, hear what Heather Bhandari and Dexter Wimberly are doing to turn this around and empower artists through Art World Learning

With 3D printing, virtual reality and other technologies available, sculptors have an opportunity to explore the three dimensional in a way not previously possible. Join me as I chat with Nick Ervinck on how he harnesses these technologies to create works that speak to the present and the future, though remain grounded in the lineage of sculpture through time. As an artist I am particularly interested in the tension between nature and culture, between tradition and innovation. I try to push the limits of digital possibilities, while maintaining respect for the (art) historical legacy. When creating a work I investigate the possibilities between the organic and the digital, between the virtual and the physical. I explore classical themes such as man (with a focus on the anatomy and the emergence of cyborgs), plants (especially their genetic manipulation), masks and animals, always starting from an (art) historical background that I cut with contemporary pop and sci-fi culture. - Nick Ervinck

For this episode I had the pleasure of discussing the connections between art and transformation with artist Miriam Vlaming, whose work explores the human experience through figurative subject matter. Join us in this exploration of how art can create pathways for us to see ourselves more clearly, from different perspectives and ultimately lead to transformation.

Ever wondered what it is exactly that an art consultant does? I know I get the question all the time. In this episode the one and only Sarah Reeder of Artifactual History Appraisals and Worthwhile Magazine interviews me to pick my brain on what it is that I do. Here are some of the key points:   Guide you to develop your interests, style, taste and awareness of what artwork is out there Help you understand the larger art world and how the pieces you are interested in fit into that picture Guide you on how to understand price and value, and then balance your collection to embrace both passion and your financial interest. Understand that the most important things when selecting an art consultant are: finding a good personality fit, as well as identifying one that has the education and background to help you navigate the art world intelligently and with meaning.

There are so many arenas in which the visual arts can intersect with a community. It doesn’t always have to be about creating a finished looking object for the wall or a pedestal. Sometimes it’s about the journey, the way a united vision can bring people together to consider and solve big questions in the real world. It can be about connection, a way of processing thoughts and mapping out future dreams. In this interview, we are traveling to Lamu in Kenya, where Ajax Axe has set up Space Station #2 to invite local residents to collaborate in imagining and designing a framework for a shared vision of the future.

Dr. Mass is a cultural heritage science professional with over 20 years of research, teaching, and museum experience. She has held positions working with both major encyclopedic museum collections and in the decorative arts world, as well as teaching conservation science in both the Buffalo and Delaware Master's Degree Programs in Art Conservation. She specializes in studying questions of authenticity, state of preservation, attribution, and using innovative methods of analysis to address these questions.  In this episode you will learn:   How certain materials change over time and react to the environment How to read the clues left behind in materials A peek inside the forensic processes used to determine fakes and forgeries The importance of vetting for art fairs to protect the consumer   And much more!