UNBOUNCE - HELP GUIDE - LOGO - PORTFOLIO BRADLEY HALL - Flipbook - Page 56
LIFESTYLE
Newcastle art expert
helps homeowners navigate
the contemporary art market
The process of buying or commissioning
contemporary artwork for the home is being
de-mystified by a Newcastle-based company.
Gosforth-based Parapluie specialises in
helping homeowners buy or commission
artwork, such as paintings or sculptures.
Its art advisory service guides people
through the entire process, from selecting
an artist and agreeing a price, through to
delivery and installation of the work.
The company has been founded by
Julia Bell who previously worked as Head
of Partnerships at BALTIC Centre for
Contemporary Art and Curator at
Middlesbrough Art Gallery (later MIMA).
As well as oering a personal service,
helping people to buy work direct from
artists, Julia also runs Parapluie’s
members club which oers a calendar of
exclusive events for anyone interested in
learning more about contemporary art.
Julia explained: “Throughout the year I
organise visits to artists’ studios, art fairs
and exclusive preview events for our
members. It’s a great way of learning
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more about the art world in a relaxed,
friendly environment.”
During her 20 year career working in
the contemporary art world, Julia has
built up an impressive contact book of
artists and galleries, not only in the North
Find out more at www.parapluieart.com
East but nationally and internationally.
As well as working directly with
homeowners, Julia also liaises with
interior designers and architects, selecting
artworks which complement newly
designed homes and workplaces.
“The primary consideration for me
when I work with a homeowner is helping
them to nd art for their home which
they love as this is something that they
are going to live with on a daily basis,”
said Julia.
“I also think about how the artwork is
created and whether it will have any long
term conservation needs in order to keep
it in good condition, where the piece will
be positioned and how we’ll install it in
the home.”
“The right piece of art can really
complete a home and of course it can be
an investment for the future as well as
something to enjoy today,” said Julia.
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE
