Advisory Services

The art world can often be overwhelming, even to those with experience. The help of a skilled advisor is sometimes necessary to navigate complex and varied art spaces. A respected leader in the field with over a decade of experience, Michael is available to assist artists, collectors, and organizations. These services are highly customizable and can range from short one-on-one sessions to longer term project management. Peruse the menu below to learn more about selected offerings and feel free to email Michael with questions.

  • Portfolio Reviews
    Michael has handled thousands of works of art and often collaborates with artists to review their work and pinpoint which pieces are most successful. By sharing both an aesthetic and market analysis of a work's potential, he can aid artists in determining their professional goals and creative direction. He has reviewed portfolios for successful artists throughout New England and beyond, and has served as a reviewer at the Rhode Island School of Design's Portfolio Review Day.

    Public Relations & Marketing
    Prior to entering the art industry full time, Michael served as a public relations and development professional. He brings this experience to bear by assisting artists in promoting their work and exhibitions. Additionally, he is happy to work with artists to develop and successfully execute marketing plans for their work. Michael has earned press for exhibitions in numerous venues including the The Providence Journal, The Boston Globe, ArtScope Magazine, WCVB Channel 5 Boston, WJAR Channel 10 Providence,  and others. With his knowledge of the media landscape, Michael is able to work with artists to shape and share their message and help them successfully share their story.

    Writing & Editing
    An experienced and eloquent writer and editor, Michael has contributed to a variety of publications including Art New England and Big Red & Shiny. Since 2021, his weekly column “Inside Art” for GoLocalProv has been Rhode Island’s leading venue for local art news and criticism. He has also taught writing in RISD’s Continuing Education Department. Michael works with artists to improve their professional writing for a variety of applications including print and web, artists statements, biographies, resumes, and more. With the help of an experienced editor and writer, artists can refine and clarify their own writing.

  • Acquisitions
    Through his extensive network of artists and galleries as well as his unique research capabilities, Michael is able to assist new and seasoned collectors in finding new works to add to their holdings. Whether working with a homeowner or a designer, he is able to provide valuable advice and feedback.

    Collections Research
    A trained appraiser, Michael is available to provide research services into current market trends around established collections. Currently, he is offering non-appraisal services which include research and feedback on current primary and secondary market values for artworks, aiding collectors in decision-making regarding disposal of works of art from their collections.

    Installation and Curation
    Michael has a keen eye for how artworks best interact with their environments and is pleased to assist collectors in deciding how and where to install works of art in their homes and businesses. Michael also is able to recommend professional art installers for complex and challenging projects.

  • Brainstorming and Coaching
    Michael is happy to meet with boards, volunteers, and key staff members to provide brainstorming and coaching support on big picture issues related to visual arts venues. Through thoughtfully arranged conversations, he is able to assist organizations in envisioning and planning for their futures.

    Project-Based Support
    A skilled project manager in the visual arts, Michael is available to provide project-based support for smaller organizations in order to bridge gaps in their organizational expertise. This can include assistance with planning and executing calls for entry, exhibitions, publicity, and more.

    Communications
    One of the key areas where many smaller arts organizations require assistance is in the arena of public relations, websites, and social media. An experienced communicator who has earned press and publicity for numerous exhibitions and programs, Michael is available to provide strategic support in the communications realm for organizations looking to expand their audience and footprint.

Pricing

Advisory services are billed on a hourly basis. Michael’s current rate is $100 an hour with a two hour minimum for most projects. Michael is happy to work with clients to develop a budget and action plan for each project.