Art & Artists

Researching Your Art

  A photograph of items in the GRAMs permanent collection on display in the third floor galleries

The Collection galleries on Level 3 of GRAM.

Learn More About Your Art

If you have a work of art that you would like to find out more about, there are many tools on the internet and in your local library to help you. The Smithsonian American Art Museum has brought together many of these resources on their website.

It is hard to establish fixed values for antiques, art, and other collectible items. According to Grand Rapids Art Museum policy, no staff member may offer appraisals or authentications. However, the following online price indexes may help you find an approximate value for your artwork.

Appraisers & Authentication

Consider finding an appraiser to determine the value of your artwork. Appraisers are trained specialists who work for a fee. They evaluate your piece and give you a written statement of its value. The following organizations publish a directory of their members and can direct you to an appraiser in your area.

International Society of Appraisers

303 West Madison Street, Suite 2650
Chicago, Illinois 60606 – 3396
Phone: (312) 981‑6778
Fax: (312) 265‑2908
www.isa-appraisers.org

Appraisers Association of America

386 Park Avenue South, Suite 2000
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 889‑5404
www.appraisersassociation.org

American Society of Appraisers

555 Herndon Parkway, Suite 125
Herndon, VA 20170
Phone: (800) 272‑8258
www.appraisers.org

Conservation & Cleaning

The Conservation Center

400 North Wolcott Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60622
(800) 250‑6919
theconservationcenter.com

Conservation of Sculpture & Objects Studio, Inc. 

900 S. Des Plaines Ave
Forest Park, IL 61130
wesaveart.com

Perception Gallery

210 Fulton Street East
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Phone: (616) 451‑2393
(for cleaning of paintings)