Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Timeline
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Mary Wood

Basel,Switzerland

Summary

Expertise in Global Sales and Acquisitions within Primary and Secondary Market Galleries. Skilled at Building Strong Relationships with Collectors, Dealers, and Institutions to Source and Place High-Value Artworks. Deep Understanding of International Art Market Trends and Committed to Exceptional Service.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Fine Art Consultant

Heather James Fine Art
Basel, Switzerland
05.2019 - 08.2024

Sales

  • Expanded gallery presence to Europe, establishing a Basel, Switzerland-based art consultancy.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with key players in the art market, including collectors, primary and secondary market dealers, auction houses, and institutions.
  • Curated art selections for prospective clients and interior designers, considering budget, size restrictions, and aesthetic preferences.
  • Interfaced with auction houses, dealers, and private clients, overseeing logistical coordination, including packing, transport, and installation.
  • Demonstrated a deep understanding of current market trends and tastemakers within the art world.
  • Regularly traveled across Europe to meet client needs, successfully acquiring and placing masterpieces by artists such as Claude Monet, Alexander Calder, René Magritte, David Hockney, Fernando Botero, and Damien Hirst.

Acquisitions

  • Conducted market analysis for artwork tailored to client needs, sourcing pieces that align with their parameters.
  • Coordinated viewings and prepared condition reports for artworks across Europe.
  • Managed the process of conservation and restoration, including communication with conservators, treatment proposals, secure transport, and documentation.
  • Assessed artwork condition and quality for purchase consideration.
  • Facilitated the acquisition of certificates of authenticity from artist foundations or expert scholars.
  • Collaborated closely with in-house research team to conduct comprehensive research into the provenance, literature, and history of artworks, along with detailed analysis of auction records, market valuations, and comparable sales.

Sales Assistant

Heather James Fine Art
Austin, Texas
08.2018 - 05.2019
  • Supported Texas Sales Consultant in sales efforts and expansion of Southwestern US market.
  • Coordinated cross-departmentally to enhance fulfillment of customer requests and resolution of issues.
  • Researched client profiles to better understand their needs and tailor sales strategies accordingly.
  • Processed sales invoices and maintained client correspondence to ensure a smooth sales cycle.
  • Brainstormed strategies to enhance client interactions and improve overall engagement and satisfaction.
  • Provided on-site support to consultant during art fairs and client meetings.

Art Director

ART on 5th Gallery (DBA Ao5 Gallery)
Austin, Texas
02.2013 - 10.2017

Gallery and Artist Management

  • Managed logistics for gallery exhibitions and opening receptions, showcasing local, national, and international artists
  • Discovered and signed emerging artist Brandon Snow, generating $30,000 in sales over eighteen months
  • Oversaw financial operations, including purchase orders and invoicing for vendors, artists, and clients

Sales

  • Consistently met a monthly sales and framing target of $100,000 while overseeing a diverse inventory comprising original paintings, limited edition prints, and vintage film posters.
  • Cultivated and maintained strong relationships with both first-time buyers and seasoned collectors
  • Organized client home shows and facilitated artist meetings for commission work, negotiating terms for both parties

Custom Framing

  • Successfully oversaw both personnel and production at frame shop, generating an average of $40,000 in monthly revenue
  • Guided clients in custom framing design process while upholding high-quality standards, preserving artwork and adhering to budget.
  • Designed custom frames for a variety of artworks, including prints, original paintings, objects, and textiles, for clients, gallery inventory, and exhibitions.

Operations Manager

ART on 5th Gallery (DBA Ao5 Gallery)
Austin, Texas
02.2012 - 01.2013
  • Implemented a new system to streamline frame order tracking, boosting production efficiency
  • Conducted research and comparative analysis of suppliers to increase profit margins for frame materials
  • Managed supplier relations, including meetings on molding releases, quality control, and business growth strategies
  • Coordinated gallery events, including art exhibitions and non-profit collaborations
  • Oversaw the packing and shipping of vintage posters, original paintings, and fine art prints to clients and dealers.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Art History

University of Texas at Austin

Timeline

Fine Art Consultant

Heather James Fine Art
05.2019 - 08.2024

Sales Assistant

Heather James Fine Art
08.2018 - 05.2019

Art Director

ART on 5th Gallery (DBA Ao5 Gallery)
02.2013 - 10.2017

Operations Manager

ART on 5th Gallery (DBA Ao5 Gallery)
02.2012 - 01.2013

Bachelor of Arts - Art History

University of Texas at Austin
Mary Wood