Why Art Collectors Are Still Using Low-Tech Devices To Protect Their Million-Dollar Artwork

 

In a world of technology that grows at break-neck speed, our everyday life is constantly being altered. Everything from phones and cameras to sneakers, watches, air conditioners and even dog collars are “smarter” than us. As an art appraiser, my clients are prominent art collectors – predominantly high-net worth, sophisticated and tech-savvy. As such, they are often the first to try out the latest technological marvel. Except, as it turns out, when it comes to their art collection.

 

Considering that every week there is inevitably at least one news story relating to a high-value artwork theft, damage, fraud or authentication scandal, there is certainly a need for technologies to prevent such calamities. Those are only the stories that make the news, usually high profile works of art worth tens and even hundreds of millions dollars. As an appraiser, I am frequently called by clients who have had a theft, or even simply misplaced art, silver and decorative objects. The values are not comparatively impressive, but still worth a considerable investment in preventative technology.

 

So, when I set out to write an article about the best technology for art collectors, I thought it was going to be a relatively easy task. I imagined GPS tracking devices to prevent loss, digital thumbprints to thwart fraud, and tons of cool apps to identify an artist, confirm authenticity, track values and market fluctuations, bid at auction and, of course, see how a work of art would look in your living room. I was certain that I would solve all future art thefts by simply pointing out that a little GPS chip, combined with a recently developed “find my art” app, could track a canvas to the nearest pawn shop, boat or underground stolen art cave.

 

A bit of research, and my crime solving dreams were all but decimated. Most of the technology growth in the industry has been focused on making it easier for collectors to buy art, rather than protect it. Once a purchase has been made, the risks are high and the options limited. There are a few standout products that, if widely used, could avert many damage, theft and fraud incidents.

 

Michelle Impey, Fine Art Director at Fireman’s Fund Insurance, utilizes advanced thermal imaging technology to help identify potential fire hazards and moisture issues in the homes of her high net worth clients. “Forward looking infared” (FLIR) cameras, when used in a basement-to-attic scan performed by a certified thermographer such as Impey, show temperature anomalies, as warm objects stand out well against cooler backgrounds. Examining readings of walls, floors and ceilings can indicate leaks, areas of missing insulation or electrical hotspots. Impey indicates that this service has already prevented several major losses of important artwork.

 

For an art collector not relying on a service like that offered by Fireman’s Fund, the use of this technology is not overly practical. Besides the hefty price tag for the camera (most start at just under $1,000 for a basic model), there is an extensive and costly training course needed to use the device correctly.

 

Framing innovations are one of the best ways for a collector to protect a work of art. However, as many works of art are purchased or inherited with a frame, it is common for owners to dismiss or delay re-framing. Not just a decorative molding, framing has a significant impact on the longevity and condition (and therefore the value) of artwork.

 

Employing state of the art framing materials, such as UV filtering glazing and moisture-barrier backings is a critical step towards protecting artwork. Alumilite is a substrate exclusively used by GK Framing Group in New York for mounting works-on-paper. A technologically advanced material that is not only waterproof but does not expand or contract, its use prevents the buckling and bulging that is common with traditional mounting boards. Alumilite can also be used as a backing on paintings, as it is super lightweight and a great defense against moisture, soil, punctures and other impacts.

 

Theft of valuable artwork is always splashy news, evoking visions of masked robbers and guns. However, according to the FBI, most art thefts in the US occur in private residences and are usually inside jobs. Until tiny GPS chips find their way onto your prize possessions, an RFID and (radio frequency identification) tag and tracking software such as Aspects ARTS ™ by ISIS Asset is the most hi-tech option available to the private art collector. Small tags containing vibration sensors are “discreetly” and safely attached to works of art and objects. Sensors, placed out of sight, generate an alarm when a piece is moved without authorization. The alarm signal can transmit to a device like a CCTV, pager or off-site monitoring. The software works during the day, when perimeter alarm systems are often disabled.

 

Although definitely an impressive advancement in home security, this is not quite the “find my art app” I imagined should exist. RFID tags do not have GPS, and the software only monitors them for up to about 70 meters within a building. Once out the door, well, you and your smartphone are out of luck. ISIS’s website explains that “tag size and system cost is still a limiting factor in the field”. According to Impey, some collectors, especially those living in apartment buildings with 24-hour security and household staff, prefer not to arm individual objects, perceiving the risk of theft as fairly low.

 

With millions of dollars at stake (hello Christie’s Contemporary Art sale), why has art remained so “low-tech”? Art is still a field led by expertise, rather than ingenuity. Historians, authenticators, appraisers, transporters, handlers, framers – all have specialized knowledge and skill that technology has enhanced but not replaced. Beyond that, as owners of high value art make up such a miniscule slice of the population, there is not the same motivation for developers of technology as there is in other industries.

 

So, what can a collector do to protect their art from theft and damage? Impey suggests a number of options that are outside the high tech. To deter casual theft, very basic installation hardware can attach the frame to the wall and lock it in place until opened with a special wrench. Using separate alarm codes for household staff members and keeping small valuables out of high traffic areas are all small but important steps for security. When it comes to damage, logic is the best defense. Keep high value art and objects out of direct sunlight and off exterior walls. Think of potential hazards, such as fireplaces, interior doors and climate control vents. In terms of authentication and fraud, make copies of all important documentation and store them off-site. It may not be high tech, but it is easy and can prevent devastating loss. Additionally, as Tom Burns, Vice President of Fortress Fine Art Storage, New York, suggests, surround yourself and your collection with people you trust. Use companies and staff with impeccable reputations, run background checks and ask for references. Be diligent and mindful of the value of your art and the responsibility involved with owning it.

 

Lastly, download the level tool app on your phone. It will make sure that you never hang a painting crooked on the wall again – innovation at its best.