Any good place to sell artwork collection?

[google....@spamgourmet.com]

I am trying to help a friend sell some of his life long collection, and
am looking into artshows like Don Scotts. I've never done this sort of
thing before, and was wondering if anyone could recommend a good
artshow where real collectors go. By real, I don't mean to offend, but
he's tried ebay and people don't pay much there at all. He's also tried
farmers and flea markets, so those suggestions are out. I'm hoping for
places where the higher payers shop, although I realize we all probably
are.

I appreciate any suggestions.

Thanks in advance.

JAV

[Jessica V.]

It needs to be the right market for the subject matter. Western
paintings that no one looks at here in Maine, I've sold for several
thousand dollars in western US upscale resort towns, paid hefty
comissions too but a $1500 comission beats sitting unsold at $500.
Modernist stuff is a little more hopeful here but brings more money in
NYC or LA.

The prices also need to be realistic, that there is no mention of
working with an art dealer leaves me suspect that the prices may be too
high. If niether of you know about selling art how are prices being
determined?

If you do decide that an art dealer is required your attorney, real
estate agent, banker, accountant, or even a local mortician could more
than likely provide you with names of art dealers that have done well by
thier clients.

If I had a collection of art work that I wanted to sell myself and not
pay high comissions I'd look into flea markets or open air art shows in
major cities. If your friend tried to sell these in MYC at a flea
market known for antiques and art and failed there's something wrong
with the art or the prices.

Jessica

[javelin]

Jessica:

Thanks for the great input. I know he's tried to sell mostly on his
own, and had me create a website for him and it has a variety of his
items on it, though he's received little response there despite about
5000 hits.

I know he's not above paying a 10-15% commission, or so. He hasn't
tried the flea markets, it's just that he wants more than flea markets
here in the south pay. I guess I can try taking them up north for him.
Just trying to find a good spot or two, and hoping advice will get me
farther than the "hit and miss" approach.

Thanks again for your great advice, Jessica. Hope to hear more.

JAV