The Right Work, at the Right Time

Private Residence | Manhattan, New York

PROJECT TIMELINE: 6 weeks, from artwork sourcing to acquisition

ARTIST: Sarah Blaustein

SCOPE: 270 Degree skyline view Living room Art Placement

A few weeks ago, during one of New York's 100°F (38°C) heat waves, I accompanied a client to view a painting we had been waiting over a month to see in person.

The project began shortly after the client moved into a new Manhattan apartment with sweeping 270-degree skyline views in May. The goal was clear: find a work that could anchor the living room and hold its own within such a remarkable space.

When we first saw the painting through photos, it was already incredibly compelling. But for a work of this scale and significance, the client wanted to experience it in person before making a final decision.

The gallery was exceptionally accommodating, arranging for the painting to be transported from the artist's studio in San Francisco to New York. Then came the waiting.

About a month later, we finally stood in front of the work.

The decision was almost immediate.

After seeing it in person, the client knew it was the one. The acquisition happened so naturally that by the time we walked out for coffee, we suddenly realized neither of us had taken a single photo with the painting.

Some moments simply happen that quickly.

What many people don't see is that viewing the artwork is actually only a small part of an art advisor's role—although it is certainly one of the most rewarding.

Most of the work happens behind the scenes: communicating with galleries, confirming availability, coordinating transportation, managing timelines, and following up on countless details throughout the acquisition process.

Many of my collectors are based overseas, which means we often make important acquisition decisions without ever standing in front of the artwork together. Those projects require even more conversation—discussing the work in depth, reviewing the collector's space, budget, and long-term collecting goals, so they can make confident decisions even from thousands of miles away.

Helping collectors find the work that truly belongs in their collection is never just about sourcing a painting. It's about building enough clarity and confidence that, when the right piece finally appears, the decision feels obvious.

Every successful placement reminds me that the weeks of coordination, patience, and preparation are always worth it.