Tips for Virtual Art Advising | Naples, FL project
At the beginning of 2022, I was asked to join Tara Cain Design in the later stages of a renovation of a condominium in Naples, Florida.
While a remote project is not unusual for Mason Lane, ideally we would be on site at the very least once or twice, depending on the scope. In this case, the art was sourced and installed entirely from a distance, with my first and only visit to the home after the artworks were hung - fortunately for me, in early April after a snowy Minnesota winter!
Tara Cain (l) and Kathy Ganley (r)
Understanding why this experience was so successful illustrates a few crucial elements for ANY remote project. Without a doubt, the level of trust between myself, Tara Cain, and the homeowner client was vital to our success. As a team, we had a clear understanding of the client’s vision for this space. Although situated high above the Gulf of Mexico, we were not looking to create a space that was a traditional coastal residence, with ocean paintings and overt seaside references. Instead, our collective intention was to acquire artworks that were calming and intriguing, with subtleties and textures that felt cohesive with the luxurious furnishings in this relaxed family retreat. Additionally, investing in female artists was an important consideration, and the majority of art purchased reflects that directive.
The technological resources available to us also played a key role. Good photos and measurements make all the difference, while a Zoom walk-thru allows for a better understanding of the home’s flow. Furthermore, the resources available from Tara Cain, including furnishing specifications, architectural drawings, and her sound and valued feedback were readily accessible, and as the client was regularly on site to survey the renovation process, additional photos or measurements could be quickly obtained.
Also noteworthy - and this applies to all of our projects - is the logistical coordination of framing, shipping, and installing eight artworks arriving from all over North America. Details were tightly tracked, as each piece required a different shipping method or framing locale. For example, the Lilian Crum drawing was coming from Canada, which would have been expensive to ship if framed by the gallery (shipping via tube is way more cost efficient). Fortunately, we purchased the Maura Segal work from a gallery in Delray Beach, Florida, and this gallery was able to frame both pieces for us beautifully. While these two works were framed and stored locally, other pieces waited for installation at the residence itself, as it was summer and the home was empty. The Caprice Pierucci sculpture lounged on a guest bed for a few months!
After researching referrals, we found a local install team. These installers were provided detailed instructions, including floor plans, photographs and specifications of the artworks, and exact hanging instructions. With an experienced person, you can trust the installer to make a final decision onsite, shifting a piece an inch or two. And of course, I was available via FaceTime to guide and answer questions.
As anyone who has experienced a significant renovation knows, there are always a few hiccups along the way - did I mention Hurricane Ian? But Mason Lane is a partner intent on helping our clients navigate these challenges, and this stunning ocean home is now ready to be enjoyed by family and friends for many years to come.