Art & Investing Blog Posts

For high-net-worth families with significantly appreciated art collections, estate planning can fall short of optimizing both legacy and tax efficiency. Enter upstream planning, a lesser known but highly effective strategy that leverages a senior family member’s unused estate tax exemption to minimize capital gains tax on appreciated artwork (or other low basis assets). When executed properly, this approach can result in a full basis step-up, effectively eliminating capital gains tax exposure o

Donating significant works of art to museums is a commendable act, enriching public access to culture and often forming a key part of a family’s philanthropic legacy. For many collectors, the available income tax deduction is also an important consideration. However, the path to securing that deduction is paved with complex IRS rules, particularly concerning valuations and appraisals. A recent U.S. Tax Court decision, WT Art Partnership LP v. Commissioner, T.C. Memo. 2025-30, highlights just ho

For many collectors, assembling an art collection is a journey fueled by passion, intellect, and a deep appreciation for beauty and history. It reflects your unique taste and often becomes intertwined with your personal story and legacy. But as with other significant assets, the question eventually arises: how do you thoughtfully pass this collection – and the legacy it represents – to the next generation without inadvertently creating friction among your loved ones? As advisors deeply involved

Many people don’t think about art as a traditional asset such as cash, securities, or real estate. However, art collections are often quite valuable and can make up a significant portion of your entire estate. Art collectors may own art for many reasons – some have a passion and love for art, some own an art collection to decorate their homes, and others own art strictly as an investment. Some art collectors may be artists themselves, creating works as a source of income. They also may create a

As an artist or creative professional, your career is often characterized by its unpredictability. One month you might land a lucrative project, and the next, your income could drop significantly. This financial volatility makes it crucial to adopt strategic planning and surround yourself with a reliable advisory team. Here are some essential tips to help ensure financial security throughout your career, along with insights around the key advisors who can support you. 1. Establish a Budget and

Art has long been an appealing option for investors across the globe who are seeking to diversify their portfolios, offering both aesthetic and financial value. Today, the U.S. remains the largest art market in the world, with China and the U.K. following closely behind.i If considering investing in art, it’s important that your financial advisor understands your motivation, as art is a long-term, illiquid investment. Are you seeking gains, or are you passionate about and interested in art, and