Assets 2018: Spotlight on Sunday’s Program

Kathi Jablonsky,
ISA CAPP

You can achieve gold at Assets 2018 by attending our expert-led educational sessions around the theme "The Gold Standard: Innovation and Valuation." Here’s an inside look at our planned programming for Sunday, March 11.

Beyond Readily Apparent Identity
9:00-10:00am

Sunday morning starts off with "Beyond Readily Apparent Identity" by ISA CAPPs and past presidents Cindy Charleston-Rosenberg and Todd Sigety. Their presentation will explore situations where identity disclaimers can be used or when deeper work is required.

Following this session, you'll enjoy your choice of break-outs through the afternoon. You'll have a hard time choosing between our fabulous speakers.

Break-Out I
10:10-11:20am

• Session A: Art - A Source of Liquidity. Learn about evaluating art and other personal property assets to be used as loan collateral. Presented by John Arena, US Trust.
• Session B: Discovering California Pottery. Explore colorful and delightful mid 20th-century pottery with Bill Stern, book author and California Design Museum Director.
• Session C: New Appraisers Guide to the Galaxy. Kirsten Smolensky, JD, ISA CAPP, and ISA’s Core Course instructor will touch upon many of the key areas of appraising. New appraisers will find practical advice on building their practice.

Moon and Half Dome
Ansel Adams

Break-Out II: Good, Better and Best
1:05-2:20pm

• Session A: Ansel Adams Photographs. Be enlightened about the preeminent 20th century photographer of the American landscape, and compare valuation characteristics for his iconic works. This session will be led by Brittany Moorefield, Director of Photography Sales at Ansel Adams Gallery.
• Session B: American Furniture and Silver. Brooke Sivo, Director of American Furniture & Decorative Arts at Bonham’s, will teach us to compare and rate examples of furniture and silver based on design and craftsmanship.

Break-Out III
2:25-3:40pm

• Session A: Stop, Look and Listen: Using Connoisseurship to Navigate the Contemporary Art Market. Holly Sherratt, Director of Modern and Contemporary Art for Heritage Auctions, will inform us about the Post-War and Contemporary sector, which has been dominating the fine art market.
• Session B: Stay Golden! Explore What Glitters in Costume Jewelry. Discover costume jewelry makers and the current market in this dazzling presentation by Rosalie "Rhinestone Rosie" Sayyah.



Rosalie "Rhinestone Rosie" Sayyah

• Session C. The Intersection of Appraising and Wealth Management: Working with High-Net Worth Clients, Their Collections and Their Insurance Carriers. This session will be presented by AIG Directors Danna Kay and Barbara Chamberlain and moderated by Todd Sigety, ISA CAPP. Find out why a collaborative approach is necessary to work with high-net worth clients.

Break-Out IV
4:00-5:00pm

• Session A: Eight Street Artists to Watch in 2018. Investigate the major players in the contemporary street art scene and their place in the art market. Led by Tim Luke, CAI, BAS, MPPA, ISA AM, President, TreasureQuest Group, Inc., and Executive Director, Contemporary and Street Art for Julien’s Auctions.
• Session B: American Innovations: Studio Glass. Bruce Orr, Owner of Jaremos and art glass consultant, will lead us on a journey from the launch of the American Studio Glass movement in the 1960s through the explosion of studio glass artists and the current market.

Liquid Assets: Wine Investment and Appreciation
5:00-6:00pm

Sunday’s educational programming will conclude with Liquid Assets, by Amanda Crawford, Director of Fine and Rare Wines for Heritage Auctions. Find out about wine investment and appreciation while tasting delectable California wines.

View the full conference program.

Read the first part of our deep dive into Assets 2018 programming, focused on Saturday's educational offerings.

If you haven’t already, register today to attend Assets 2018. It will be ISA’s first conference in the golden state, and you don’t want to miss it!

Kathi Jablonsky, ISA CAPP, is co-chair of the ISA Annual Conference Committee.

The Importance of Continuous Learning for Appraisers

By Kelly Juhasz, ISA AM

Whether you’ve been an appraiser for 20 years or two years, acquiring new knowledge is important not only to your business but also to your own well-being. We often conveniently put this notion out of mind, but what truly and deeply motivates us isn’t money. It’s knowledge.

As a qualified appraiser, I am required to stay current with USPAP and ISA’s membership criteria, thus ensuring a high standard of appraisal service to the public. So, I am continuing to learn. But is being required to learn enough to keep me motivated and engaged? Not for me. I’m guessing it’s not enough for you either.

Why Keep Learning New Skills?

Many of you who know me as an appraiser likely don’t know that I am an expert in adult learning. For corporations and higher educational institutions throughout North America, I have designed courses and tools to increase performance and motivation in the workplace. I also have helped many arts organizations design programming to engage audiences and expand their purposes.

From a professional viewpoint, I would like to share three key factors that motivate students of all ages to continuously learn and acquire new skills.

1. Mastery: By building your competencies and skills, you can more easily establish credibility and trust with your clients, two critical components of the appraisal business. By gaining a deeper understanding within your current specialty or expanding your specialties, you will challenge and reward yourself with new knowledge and increased confidence.
   
2. Purpose: Acquiring new knowledge will help you solve problems for your clients and colleagues. By providing solutions, you will be heard and recognized for what you know. It will provide opportunities for new business and it will keep you relevant.
   
3. Enjoyment and Engagement: As an appraiser, you have a high degree of independence that most people in their work do not have. You have the control to direct your own learning in areas that interest you. You have choice. Create an environment for yourself that is rich, rewarding, and highly satisfying while running a successful appraisal business. 

Realizing successes focused on these three motivating factors starts with a commitment to continuing to learn and acquire new knowledge.

Five Ways to Continue Learning Right Now

Here are five ways to continue your learning in a meaningful way that you can do anytime as a member of ISA:

1. Volunteer with your local chapter, present at the ISA annual conference, or become an ISA Ambassador. By donating time and expertise in the appraisal community, you will learn from other appraisers. Together, you will solve a problem or create a quality event, workshop or working group and, in return, help to increase the overall expertise of all ISA members. (Purpose)
   
   
2. Add or expand your area of specialty. ISA offers many opportunities to expand your knowledge into other appraisal specialties. If you appraise art, you can take courses to learn more about prints or Asian art, or expand into antiques and modern furniture. I know that I prefer online and self-study courses so that I don’t incur travel expenses and don’t have to leave my office. The Foundation for Appraisal Education also offers annual scholarships for courses; don't hesitate to apply.
   
   Remember, everything works in cycles. Although some specialty areas seem to be shrinking, and though there may be objects you don’t currently receive many calls about, you’ll always have the chance to use your new knowledge. The cycle will change, market demand will increase for items, and you’ll be confident, armed with your new knowledge, and ready to apply it in your appraisal practice when those calls do come in. (Mastery)
   
   
3. Join a community board, advisory group or committee for an organization focused on your area(s) of specialty. We often think that we will be the ones providing the benefits by sharing our knowledge sitting as an expert, but, in fact, it works both ways. Getting involved will help you notice trends in the market, consumer interests and tastes, and also expand your list of contacts. It will also lead you to new business. You will find that you will learn and receive more than you give. (Enjoyment and Engagement)
   
   
4. Attend Chapter meetings and presentations. With the help of colleagues, for example, the Canadian Chapter of ISA features invited guest speakers as opportunities for new learning. And even more rewarding, fellow appraisers prepare detailed presentations based on their areas of expertise for other Chapter members. These presentations create a bridge between ISA members from across the country and from various specialties, and provide an opportunity to learn together and get to know each other better. There is nothing more challenging than presenting to a highly skilled and knowledgeable group like our appraiser colleagues. (Mastery and Engagement)
   
   
5. Increase your business skills. Find courses and programs directly tied to small business management, marketing and finance (such as calculating blockage discount equations). You will be able to focus your time on tasks that matter and learn when to bring in outside expertise that isn't your core strength. Also, check out the ISA Means Business! Toolbox for resources that can help you increase your business acumen. You will reduce your stress and enjoy running a business better. (Mastery and Enjoyment)

As an appraiser, you may feel like you are on your own, but with ISA, you are never alone.

Kelly Juhasz is an Accredited Member of the International Society of Appraisers, President of the Canadian Chapter, and a certified expert in adult learning. Her work in professional development has improved the performance of thousands of adults across North America and her appraisal knowledge is recognized by government agencies and cultural institutions nation-wide. She holds a Masters in Archival Science from Canada’s highest ranked university and a degree in Art History. She has worked on a range of artwork from Dutch Masters such as Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn and Gerard Dou to contemporary works by William Kentridge and Peter Doig. Kelly was the winner of the 2017 ISA Rising Leader Award. 


Recommended Reading:
Pink, Daniel. (2009). Drive. Riverhead Books.


Would you like to be an ISA blog contributor? Email us. 

In Praise of ISA's Job Board

Christine Guernsey, ISA CAPP

I knew that the ISA Job Board was a great idea, but didn’t realize I would be able to utilize it so quickly. Like many of you, I am the sole proprietor of an appraisal practice. I consider my practice successful, but yet, there are always moments of feast or famine throughout the year.

This year has been unusual for my business in that every large collection and important client I have ever appraised for has come back with another need. If I did insurance for them several years ago, they now need an estate appraisal, they're donating a work of art, or they need another insurance update. As appraisers, no matter how busy you become, you never want to say "no" to a great returning customer and risk losing them in the future.

When a past client and now a trustee called early this March with a need for an estate appraisal for his father’s very large Western art collection (over 300 works), I panicked. In addition to Assets, a planned surgery right after Assets, my youngest daughter’s destination wedding in Charleston, and several other appraisals in the works, I really didn’t have the time to take on this new assignment….but how could I say no?

I decided to try the ISA Job Board and see what kind of help I could get. After posting for temporary research help, I received applications from six candidates. Out of those six, I found three appraisers who were familiar with Western art and working towards ISA accreditation and therefore needed qualifying hours of experience. None of this help came from the Dallas area and all work was completed remotely online. I have a template I use for appraisal report work descriptions with sections for comparables which I sent to each appraiser. They researched 10 works at a time, completed the template and included appropriate comparables for me to review and determine the final fair market value for the report.

With the help I received through the Job Board, I was able to complete the appraisal project under deadline while relieving my workload and stress. I also got to assist three appraisers who needed work experience in the field. For the next large job that comes my way, I plan on using the Job Board again. It is great to finally have qualified help on a temporary contract basis and the process could not have gone more smoothly.

Don’t just take my word for it. Your colleagues have had similar great experiences:

Wendy Gerdau, ISA CAPP, of Treasures Estate Concierge Services, California:

"The ISA Job Board has been a fabulous tool for my company. The researchers that applied for part time jobs have turned into full time valued members of the Treasures Estate Concierge Services family. I am looking forward to hiring many more individuals from the ISA Job Board. There is nothing better than ISA members supporting each other, a win-win." 

Linda Matthews, ISA, of Matthews Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico:

"The job board provided me a great opportunity to be a part of a massive art appraisal project, learn a great deal from a CAPP appraiser, get paid for what I love to do AND add a 130 hours towards my AM pathway. A veteran ISA appraiser posted the job, I replied to the ad and was hired. It was that easy! It was a fast way to find work, make money and most importantly learn from others so I can become a better appraiser. It was my first experience getting appraisal work from the job board posting but it won’t be my last!"

Suzanne Houck, ISA CAPP, Houck Asset Verification, Virginia:

"I wish there had been a job board targeted to the appraisal industry when I began my appraisal practice years ago. I love having the opportunity to scan for job opportunities in slow times and to have confidence when looking for help during times of appraisal overload. Even if I’m not looking to post or pick up work, I have enjoyed reading the job posts because I can often connect good candidates who might not have seen the board yet with positions. When looking for help, just knowing my fellow ISA members are reading the board gives me added confidence that I am targeting appraisers well- trained in appraisal methodology and ethics. This job board might be my favorite member benefit!"

Richard J. Meliska, ISA AM, Essex Estate Services, Evanston, IL:

"The ISA job board is a snap to use and postings couldn't be easier to enter. This is my second time using the board and I am looking forward to posting positions as I need additional help. Not only does the ISA have a great pool of talent, but the networking opportunities to find great talent is wonderful." 

If you are temporarily overwhelmed with assignments you couldn’t say no to or are currently underwhelmed with assignments and want to pick up a few extra hours, check out ISA’s new Job Board. You can advertise for ISA qualified help or promote special services you can provide to other appraisers in need. One of the great features of this online benefit is the ability to sign up for alerts when a new position or request is posted.

This is a great new member benefit exclusively created for our ISA members. I urge you all to try the Job Board. It will help you all to accept more assignments and provide further opportunity to meet and work with other qualified ISA appraisers.

- Christine Guernsey, ISA CAPP

The Case for ISA: Four Members' Stories

Room at the table for young leadership; an exclusive focus on personal property appraising; a supportive network of fellow professionals and a clear, peer-supported path to credentialing - many ISA members cite these benefits as the reasons why the organization has experienced such dynamic growth in the past decade.

With over 800 members and growing, ISA is the professional organization of choice for the majority of qualified personal property appraisers throughout the US, Canada and abroad.

We asked new and long-time members to report what they value most about our society, why they joined ISA, and why they recommend ISA training and membership to colleagues.

Michelle Conliffe, ISA CAPP 

Michelle Conliffe joined ISA in 2013. Michelle holds an MA in American Fine and Decorative Arts from Sotheby’s Institute of Art in New York. Within three years of joining ISA, Michelle earned her CAPP, ISA's highest designation. She has lead volunteer committees, served on strategic task forces, and last year, her fresh ideas and natural leadership skills were rewarded when she was selected by her peers to serve on the National Board of Directors. ISA's defined personal property focus, strategic plan for growth, and members’ diversity in geography and expertise initially attracted Michelle to our organization.

"In 2012, I made the difficult decision to leave an established auction house and go into business for myself as an appraiser. At the time, I did not know everything that would be required to launch my business, but I knew that I would need an accreditation that reflected the high standards I set for myself and my work.

Of the three major appraisal societies, ISA stood out for a few reasons. 1) The ISA community is focused primarily on fine and decorative art appraisals. 2) The membership has the widest geographical reach, giving me access to a large network of professionals that possess a broad range of expertise. 3) There is a path to growth within the organization that reflects the work and effort I put into it, rather than depending on an arbitrary length of service.

I have found first-hand that if you have a fresh idea or see a part of the organization that needs improvement, ISA wants to hear your voice. With this diversity of ideas, I know that ISA will continue to grow and thrive as the leading personal property appraisal organization."

Glenn M. Rand, ISA, EdD

Glenn M. Rand, EdD, joined ISA in 2016. As a seasoned educator with a doctorate of education and 12 published books in the field of photography, Glenn was looking for a professional organization that would reward the connoisseurship he brought to the field, allowing him to apply his advanced training toward acquiring his appraising credential. Glenn found ISA's unique Specialty and Advanced Studies Committee vetting pathway very attractive, because it allowed him to demonstrate his scholarship without compromising the advanced methodology training he knew he needed to feel fully qualified to begin a second career in appraising.

"Having had full careers in higher education, as an artist, as an author and having recently created a fine art services business, it was natural to see professional appraising as a future path.

Being familiar with appraisals from collecting art and my work with donations to museums, I realized that education and knowledge of prevailing standards would be required to adequately provide appraisal services to clients.

In reviewing the potentials for acquiring this knowledge base, it became clear that ISA provided the most inclusive educational programs and professional potentials. Through ISA, I have meet professionals willing to share their experiences, knowledge and collaboration, helping me chart my new career direction."

Darlene Hines, ISA CAPP

Darlene Hines joined ISA in 1998. Darlene holds ISA's highest appraisal designation, and is a past National Board member with almost 20 years of service in a broad range of capacities. She typifies the generosity of spirit unique to ISA that values supporting colleagues to grow and excel. She has recommended many employees to membership without fear of competition. Darlene's motto is "Givers Gain." There may not be a better illustration of the supportive culture that ISA encourages than Darlene's tireless example to "work together rather than compete."

"When I joined ISA in 1998, my husband and I owned an antique gallery and we were getting requests for appraisals. At the time, I was working toward a Master’s Degree, working full time, and raising three children. Determined to make the great adventure of becoming an appraiser work, I chose ISA for its strong ethical characteristics, options for continuing education, networking opportunities, and because it was simply the best organization in the field.

It's rewarding to speak of ISA to others seeking membership or expressing a zeal for appraising. I have referred many of my employees to ISA over the years, including a new member who I believe will be a rising star. I have also started a local appraisers' group with current ISA appraisers in Michigan. We meet for lunch and discuss the importance of credentialing, continuing education, and service to the organization. If I could help encourage appraisers to work together rather than compete, we would set a positive example for our businesses and ISA."

Pam Campbell, ISA CAPP

Pam Campbell joined ISA in 1994. Together with her husband, Bill, she operates one of Ft. Worth's most prestigious contemporary art galleries with a prominent national reputation. As a long-standing member of more than one professional appraisal organization, Pam migrated to ISA because she valued the society's exclusive focus on personal property appraising, and the superior local support and continuing education she found in her active local chapter.

"ISA offered a wealth of advantages to me as a personal property appraiser that I did not find in the other organization in my geographical area. ISA’s local chapter holds regular monthly meetings, with superior personal property-focused education, in addition to the opportunity to socialize with colleagues.

ISA coursework gets to the point, with a nuts-and-bolts approach rather than abstract concepts. The many courses offered by ISA beyond the Core Course allow members to continue to be excited about learning, with new courses constantly in development.

With ISA, I found a group of colleagues who were and remain welcoming, willing to collaborate, are generous with knowledge, and are interested in strengthening the appraisal profession."

Would you like to become part of the ISA family?

For those new to the profession, learn more about how ISA can help you launch a lucrative career in personal property appraising.

For seasoned professionals, view our complete list of ISA benefits designed to help you grow and succeed as a personal property appraiser.

If you’re currently a member of another appraisal organization, be sure to view our ISA Bridging Policy. Through December 15, 2017, your application fee is waived.

Oriental Rugs: The Myths, the Market, and More

By Ellen Amirkhan, ISA CAPP

Whether they are made by hand or machine, valuing rugs is one of the most daunting appraisal specialties. Winston Churchill’s description of the former Soviet Union, “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma,” also serves as an apt way of depicting the world of Oriental rugs. In the last 25 years, during which I’ve taught a number of rug appraisal courses, I’ve determined that the goal of the class is to give the student the tools and skills to measure, analyze, photograph and document rugs using proper techniques and terminology.

A springboard to self-study, November’s Oriental Rugs course focuses on terminology, components of identification, photography, commonly encountered rugs, factors affecting value, and finding the appropriate comparables. The class is held in “The Casbah,” a classroom in a 100+ year-old oriental rug cleaning plant in Dallas, Texas, providing those in attendance with hands-on access to over 300 rugs. 

But while I have you here, let’s dispel a few myths about oriental rugs, shall we?

Myth # 1: All oriental rugs appreciate in value.
Answer: Neither post-World War II rugs nor most new rugs being purchased today will appreciate in value. Consumers most likely paid more for some rugs in the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s than they are worth today. Most rugs today are made to satisfy current design trends. When these trends in color, design and texture go out of style, the value of the rug will depreciate. 

Examples: 
(a) Pastel Kirmans of the ‘50s and ‘60s are coming into the secondary market as their owners are downsized or become deceased. These rugs, which were expensive and “choice” 50+ years ago, cannot even be given away today.

(b) Today, Turkish Oushaks are decoratively hot. However, they were loosely woven and their condition may be fragile. I tell my clients that even though they paid a high price for this rug, the value will plummet as styles change.

(c) Expensive luxury cars such as BMW, Mercedes, and Jaguar depreciate the moment they are driven off the showroom floor. This depreciation does not mean that the vehicles are not worthy of the price. The same applies to most contemporary and trendy oriental rugs. 

Myth # 2: All old Oriental rugs are worth a lot.
Answer: Condition is important when determining value. For instance, an old rug in poor condition is just an old rug. An old rug in good condition may not be worth much if it lacks artistic merit (i.e. bad colors). Many old rugs with artistic merit are worth repairing, as they are decorative and functional.

Myth # 3: Persian (Iranian) rugs are better than rugs from other countries.
Answer: Many pre-World War II Persian rugs such as Ferahan Sarouk, Kashan, Heriz, Tabriz, Bijar, tribal pieces and other noteworthy examples will always have a market, albeit a small one, if they are in good condition and have artistic merit. Since the fall of the Shah in 1979, along with the embargo on Persian goods (1987-1999 and 2010-2016), other countries improved the quality and increased the production of rugs that changed with design trends. The quality of Persian rugs has gradually deteriorated since the 1960s, and they have not kept pace with modern tastes. Today, there is limited production of high quality, natural dyed rugs that are worthy of their ancestors’ reputation. They have a lot of catching up to do. 

Myth # 4: Knot count is the best indication of value.
Answer: The value of only a few traditional Persian rugs is determined by knot count, and even then only partially. Two that come to mind are Nain and Isfahan. The value of silk rugs is largely determined by knot count and country of origin. The value of most older, traditional Persian rugs is based on condition, rarity, and artistic merit. Heriz and Mahal rugs have a lower knot count and used to be some of the most expensive rugs in the decorative market. Generally speaking, the price of new rugs is based on knot count and quality of materials. Once these mass produced rugs are used, their value in the secondary market is not based on knot count but rather condition and artistic merit.

Myth # 5: Oriental rugs are identified by their design.
Answer: Design is only one component of identification. Rugs are best identified by their construction. Some of the components of identification are materials used, type of knot, number and color of wefts between each row of knots, design, size, and end and side finishes. When a ‘rug person’ walks up and kicks over the corner of a rug, he or she is looking at the construction on the back of the rug. 

Myth # 6: Never clean or vacuum Oriental rugs.
Answer: 80% of soil in rugs is dry, particulate matter. It acts as sandpaper and wears the rug out. Some rugs are so thick, they do not appear to be soiled, when in fact the soil is so embedded that it is impossible to remove all of it. Beware of anyone selling rugs that say they should never be cleaned.  What they may really mean is the rug will not withstand proper cleaning due to condition, foundation painting, or other hidden defects.

There is perhaps no other subject for the generalist personal property appraiser that is filled with so many myths, misconceptions and downright nonsense! Like the guy who told me his rug was over 1000 years old and trampled by camels. (Really?!)

Some of My Favorite Stories:
1.  My rug has a twin and it’s in the Smithsonian.
2.  The Shah owned it/walked on it/gave it to my husband’s second cousin twice-removed.
3.  You can tell my rug was woven by a mother and daughter because one side is better than the other.
4.  I’m going to send the appraiser to Iran to find the weaver.
5.  The rug was repaired with yarns from its village of origin from sheep that grazed on the west side of the mountain.
6.  He thought he bought a Navajo rug from Ikea but it was a dhurrie from India.
7.  It’s one-of-a-kind, they’ve never seen it before and it’s a sculpted 90 Line Chinese from the 1980s.
8.  The rug has a label “Made in Pakistan” and they swear it’s over 100 years old.
9.  The man spent $10,000 in Turkey for what he was told was an antique Turkish silk Hereke… and it was actually modern, rayon, worth $2500.00, and made in China.
10.  My rug is “signed” and is worth more:  the inscription reads “Good Luck”.

We hope you’ll join us in class, November 10 and 11, for the Oriental Rugs course. We hope you bring some ‘favorite stories’ of your own!

Moving On Up With Education

By Libby Holloway, ISA CAPP and ARC Instructor

September is ISA’s back to school time. All three of our week long foundation courses, Core Course, Appraisal of Antiques and Residential Contents (ARC) and Appraisal of Fine Art (FA) are offered in the next few months. Shorter courses to include the 15 Hour and 7 Hour USPAP, Requalification and Oriental Rugs are also offered before this year’s end. The Foundation for Appraisal Education (FAE) even gets in the game with their upcoming Symposium in Philadelphia. There are lots of opportunities to make sure you are up-to-date with your qualifications and educational goals between now and mid-December. 

All members know that the Core Course and 15 Hour USPAP are required courses. After these are under your belt, you get a little freedom to choose your educational path and how you get your Professional Development Credits. (Don’t forget, Members need 50, AMs need 75, CAPPs need 100 and Lifetime members need 50 credits to renew.) It is also worthwhile to take a look at the ISA Credentialing Pathway, which provides an overview of the steps you can take to further your education.

It has been traditional to take the course that fits with your specialty area, which is certainly a good plan. Don’t forget, though, that most appraisers see many types of property onsite and need to know the basics of identification and description, whether they plan to complete the valuation or seek help from another member or specialist. Appraisers are also held accountable to appraise only that property they are competent to appraise (see USPAP).

The Appraisal of Antiques and Residential Contents (ARC) and Appraisal of Fine Art (FA) courses are great steps toward becoming an Accredited or Certified Member. Both are survey courses which offer a broad spectrum of knowledge to help appraisers understand at least a little about a lot of types of property. Survey courses don’t make you an expert on any subject but do give you a view of “good, better and best” for many types of property.

Both also teach you the language to use in writing descriptions, to identify and research the best comparable property, give tips on how to write USPAP compliant reports and prepare you to take other, more specialized courses. Since these are onsite courses, you have a chance to study with other members, learning from each other as well as the instructors. I have received help from both members I took ARC with sixteen years ago and from my students who took the course last fall. I admit to being a particular fan of the ARC class, which features lessons on lighting, oriental carpets, and everything in-between. (Maybe I’m a little biased.)  

I have been a CAPP member for several years now and have recently become an ARC instructor. I think I have a pretty good understanding of most decorative antiques and household property. This year, I have finally gathered up enough courage to take the Fine Art course in October. Though I have been comfortable including lower-value art in my reports, I have found that my lack of knowledge has potentially motivated me to turn down jobs with more complicated pieces included. I know that, with my background, I will not be competent to value all art.

That said, it will certainly allow me to be more confident when seeking help from more experienced fine art appraisers or specialists. I would even encourage those members with higher education who are pursuing the Specialty Studies path to consider taking one or both of the survey courses.

We often boast that ISA trains many of the most well-rounded and competent appraisers in the profession. The ARC and FA courses certainly play a part in making this true. I hope that you choose to join Michael Logan and myself in the ARC class this October. See you there!

Foundation for Appraisal Education Seminar to Discuss Fakes and Forgeries, Sept. 23-24

Founded by the ISA in 2002 as the ISA Education Foundation, the Foundation for Appraisal Education (FAE) is a not-for-profit organization formed to promote the advancement of education related to personal property appraising.

Read their official press release below about their upcoming seminar on fakes and forgeries, offering ISA continuing education credits. 

Matthew S. Wilcox

Fakes and forgeries will be the topic of discussion at many of the talks planned for the 5th annual Foundation for Appraisal Education (FAE) Seminar, on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 23-24, in the galleries of Freeman's Auctioneers & Appraisers, located at 1808 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia. Eighteen top experts will speak over the course of the two days.

"Fakes and forgeries have been around since antiquity," said Matthew S. Wilcox, Freeman's Vice President of Trusts and Estates, an FAE board member and host of this year's conference. But, Mr. Wilcox added, the problem really has gotten quite severe in recent years, as the art market has hit record prices and knock-offs have found their way into every market. Even a major international auction house illustrated what proved to be a fake Fernando Botero painting on the cover of a 1993 catalog. Evidently it fooled their specialists, as well as other experts, too."

Appraisers attending this year's conference will receive continuing education class credits, to remain in good standing with the International Society of Appraisers (ISA), based in Chicago, and with sister organizations like the Appraisers Association of America (AAA). As a fundraiser, the event's fees will benefit the ISA. "These organizations are critical to our field," Wilcox said.

Registration and continental breakfast will signal the start of both seminar days, at 8:00am Eastern time. The lectures will begin promptly at 9:00am, lasting 45 minutes each. Friday's first speaker will be Philip Zimmerman, Ph.D., an independent furniture historian (Why Fakes Matter – Authenticating American Furniture). He'll be followed at 9:45am by Eileen Kinsella, Senior Market Reporter for www.news.artnet.com in New York (Online Auctions, Tall Tales and Fake Art).

Next up will be Christopher Storb, the Dietrich American Foundation Project Conservator for the Philadelphia Museum of Art (The Gentle Art: Faking Furniture in the 20th Century and Beyond); followed by Elle Shushan, a Philadelphia-based specialist and dealer in the field of portrait miniatures (Imposters: Faking Faces on Portrait Miniatures). That concludes the morning talks.

At 12:30pm a Lunch & Learn will feature Alasdair Nichol, a Vice Chairman of Freeman's and a guest on TV's Antiques Roadshow (Fake or Fortune). Then, at 1:45pm, art law expert Joshua Kaufman, Esq., of Venable LLP in Washington, D.C., will discuss Case Law For Art Fakes.

At 2:30pm, David Lindquist, owner of Whitehall at the Villa Antiques in Chapel Hill, N.C., will give a talk titled Catching Fakes, Frauds and Alterations by Samson. That will be followed by a coffee break at 3:15, then a seminar by Lisa Minardi, a Ph.D. candidate and Assistant Curator of the Wintherthur Museum in Wilmington, Del., titled Pennsylvania German Fraktur: From A-Z.

Friday's lecture series will conclude with a discussion of Pueblo Pottery and the Market: the Martinez Family, 1890-2016 by Katharine Fernstrom, Ph.D., a teacher at various Maryland colleges and a specialist in appraising Native American art for the market. The private visit to Independence Hall will follow that, led by Karie Diethorn, Chief Curator of Independence National Historical Park. The visit is tentatively planned for around 6 pm, or about that time.

Saturday's speaker series will kick off at 9:00am with Ronald Fuchs, Curator of Ceramics for The Reeves Center at Washington & Lee University in Lexington, Va. (Most Dangerous Imitations: Chinese Export Porcelain Fakes from the First Half of the 20th Century). After that will be a seminar titled Examining Thomas Birch Prints, given by Donald H. Cresswell, Ph.D., proprietor of The Philadelphia Print Shop in Philadelphia, and a sometime expert on Antiques Roadshow.

At 11:00am, Robert Trent, a Delaware-based independent furniture historian will give a talk titled Connoisseurship in American Furniture. That will be followed by a lecture by Jennifer L. Maas, Ph.D., President of Scientific Analysis of Fine Art (What is Essential is Invisible to the Naked Eye: Scientific Evidence for Marriages, Fakes and Forgeries in the Fine and Decorative Arts).

The 12:30pm Lunch & Learn discussion will be presented by Adam Harris of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors (Watches: Luxury or Lie). Then, at 1:45 pm, Irina Tarsis, Esq., the founder of the Center for Law Art in New York City, will give a presentation titled Knoedler on Trial: Lessons Learned From Lawsuits Against America's Oldest Art Gallery.

At 2:30 pm, Letitia Roberts, a New York-based independent ceramics scholar and advisor, will speak about Connoisseurship: In the Eye of the Beholder. A 3:15 coffee break will be followed by a lecture titled Embroidery: The Language of Art by Linda Eaton, a John L. and Marjorie P. McGraw Director of Collections and the Senior Curator of Textiles at the Winterthur Museum.

Saturday's wrap-up speaker will be Thomas Folk, Ph.D., a specialist in paintings, sculptures and decorative arts (Rising Prices – Art Deco Ceramic Sculpture by Waylande Gregory and the Cleveland School).

The registration fee for the seminar is $395 for both days ($220 of which is tax deductible); or $200 for one day. The deadline to register is Sept. 15. Learn more and register here.

You can also obtain a registration form by contacting Maureen Winer at Maureen@pwpusa.com or (410) 337-0085.

To fund these programs, the FAE accepts memorials and gifts from groups and individuals, as well as corporate donations and sponsorships. The group is headquartered at 201 West Lake Street (Ste. 214) in Chicago. To learn more about FAE, please visit www.foundationforappraisaleducation.org. Matthew S. Wilcox can be contacted at (215) 385-0726, or at mwilcox@freemansauction.com.

ISA Means Business!

By Marian R. Aubry, ISA CAPP

Ever wonder what “WWW” really means? It stands for Wow Whata Week – an accurate description of the spectacular ISA Annual Conference in Fort Worth that took place in April, which featured a stellar program chockful of great speakers, timely topics, and networking opportunities that often included wine. Surprises for both ISA members and friends in attendance included a chance to use the research/report writing platform known as Collectrium for free (yes, as in FREE!) – the fact that it incorporates ISA writing standards was certainly an added bonus. It was an exciting gift, to say the least; several appraisers even gave the announcement a standing ovation. Naturally, we were all anxious to try it, even those of us who are normally skeptical of free offers. As industry professionals, we are increasingly reliant on software to help make our businesses more efficient, and with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which platforms are the best to utilize.

In a recent ISA survey, responses showed that ‘business concerns’ was among the top issues that our members would like the organization to address. In the increasingly complex landscape of appraising, aspects like marketing are often bewildering, not to mention expensive. Knowing the best way to operate an appraisal business can leave many scratching their heads. We don’t often have the time or money it takes to hire an outside party to help us wade through those waters. So... where do we begin?

In response to these concerns, the ISA Membership Retention Committee is launching a new feature: ISA Means Business! This program will focus on helping our members operate efficient, effective businesses, whether they are just starting out or making certain that their existing business is up-to-date and thriving. We will begin the launch with blogs, tips and techniques garnered from our member professionals and others; software and office practice recommendations; and entries that address some 'real-life' business concerns, including how to deal with competition and reach the gatekeepers. We are currently at work compiling the ISA Business Start-up Tool Kit, which will assist fledgling and seasoned appraisers alike.

Getting started as an appraiser, opening your first office, deciding on a business strategy, meeting the necessary government requirements, getting the word out, hoping the public will hire you, calming your 'first-timer' jitters – none of this is what you’d call an easy road. It is our hope that ISA Means Business! will at the very least help to ensure that that road is paved.

Happily, one of our most treasured resources as ISA members resides in our very own membership. Years of experience, focused expertise, networking opportunities, mentoring and a host of other ways to connect to each other – these make up the best part of ISA. This new program is not only free, but it is also entirely accessible. You need only ask to be put in contact with someone, and a fellow member will be there to help. And that, friends, is your business tip of the day: Contact Headquarters about getting connected to a mentor.

But hey, don’t just take my word for it. In a recent Forbes article highlighting the best advice ever received by successful business owners, one of the top recommendations for start-ups was… you guessed it…taking advantage of the mentorships available to you.

Why You Should Attend ISA’s Antiques & Residential Contents Course

By Michael Logan, ISA CAPP

The Antiques and Residential Contents (ARC) Course is an essential course for the generalist appraiser. While intended as one of the major courses for ISA members, it is also open to members of other organizations, as well as those who just want to learn more about antiques and those interesting things found around the home which may have value. If you are like many of us, you live and practice in an area where you may be the only appraiser for miles and you get called on to appraise everything in the home. Or maybe you have a specialty area for which there is currently a lower demand and you’re taking on other assignments as well.

The completion of the Core Course in Appraisal Studies is just the first step in your ISA education. It covers the fundamentals you need to know before taking on an appraisal assignment. The next step is to decide what path you want to take in your appraisal career. The two primary paths are Fine Art and Antiques & Residential Contents. Each of these has its own specialty course which is required to reach the ISA AM designation (Accredited Member) in that specialty. You will discover that more and more insurance companies, attorneys and courts are requiring “accredited” or “certified” appraisers.

While most of those clients likely don’t understand what those distinctions mean – or are working under the assumption that there is some type of state credentialing – as an ISA Accredited Member, you are in a position to explain that you took a particular path in your professional career to belong to a society that requires education and keeps its members well-informed and up-to-date. This is a strong advantage you have over those without the training and credentialing.

Let’s look more closely at what the ARC course offers:

• The ARC manual has just undergone a major revision. In addition to clarifying and expanding the existing topics, a number of new topics have been added which the generalist appraiser may frequently encounter. The addition of color photographs pair nicely with the text to give the student a more efficient understanding of the items being discussed. You will find that this manual will become one of the most useful references in your appraisal career.


• Areas covered include French, English and American furniture with a stronger emphasis on American, going through all the major design periods and styles from 1600 to the present. You will see the parallels between furniture and all other decorative arts fields.


• You will learn about ceramics: pottery and porcelain, glass and silver, dolls and toys, textiles, musical instruments, books, prints and much more.


• This course is not intended to make you an expert in any of these fields but is instead geared towards giving you a comprehensive general knowledge that will assist you in performing valuations on future assignment. In that vein, two new topics were added to the course. The first is research methods. This is to assist both the new and more experienced appraisers to more quickly find information and comparables for the items they are researching. The second is connoisseurship for the generalist appraiser. How do the attributes of the item you are appraising compare to other similar items you might find. Is it better? Is it worse? What do the differences mean as far as value?


• Another new topic that has been added: report writing. You will learn how to create clearer, more understandable reports while ensuring that they also meet all the requirements of the ISA Report Writing Standard and USPAP. The ARC class also includes a field trip to a local antiques shop, where you will see firsthand examples of some of the items we have discussed.

So why should you attend the ARC course?

• If you are an ISA Member, it is – along with the Fine Arts course – one of the two paths to Accredited Member designation.


• You will gain a familiarity with many of the types of property you will come in contact with while performing appraisals.


• You will learn to describe many types of property properly in your reports.


• You will improve your report writing skills.


• You will come in contact with colleagues and create friendships, some of which may last a lifetime.

Want more information regarding how to register for the ARC Course in Toronto, June 6 – June 12? Learn more and sign up here. We hope to see you there!

The Significance of Standards

By Todd Sigety, ISA CAPP

Last week, the president of The Appraisal Foundation (TAF), David Bunton, posted an article on the Huffington Post website about personal property appraising. ISA has been an active supporter of TAF for many years, requiring our members to follow and adhere to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) for even longer. After many years of supporting USPAP and participating on The Appraisal Foundation Advisory Council (TAFAC), in January of 2014, ISA became a full sponsor of TAF. In doing so, ISA is obligated to follow and adhere to the foundation's appraisal standards and qualification criteria.

The partnership between TAF and the personal property sponsors has been growing and gaining momentum through a collective process of developing further understanding of personal property essential elements. Through round-table discussions, intended user input, personal property only meetings, personal property task forces, updating of TAF website with a dedicated personal property resource page, and now this article, TAF and sponsoring personal property organizations reveal a strong commitment toward promoting professionalism and qualified appraisers. The publication of the article in the Huffington Post is important in the partnership with TAF, as it represents the intersection of interests, commitments and dedication of the foundation to the personal property community.

Members of ISA are all aware of the importance of USPAP standards, the 15-hour course, the exam and the update classes every two years. These important standards have been something ISA and our members have followed and embraced for many, many years. As a sponsor of TAF, in addition to adhering to USPAP standards, ISA is also required to follow the qualification criteria set by the Appraisal Qualifications Board (AQB). The criteria sets minimum hours for appraisal education, experience, and continuing education/requalification. ISA has been an active voice and advocate through membership in TAFAC, and as an Appraisal Foundation sponsor in developing – and now implementing – the new qualification criteria.

The new personal property qualification criteria are more than educational requirements, and the rationale behind advancing and promoting the criteria are central to the success of the profession. The qualification criteria are designed to advance the status and standing of qualified appraisers versus those who produce sub-standard work and are not qualified. David Bunton’s article in the Huffington Post is significant on so many levels, as it goes right to the core importance of standards and qualifications. As the title implies, What You Need to Know When Getting Your Personal Property Appraised, it seeks to inform and educate users of appraisals on what is involved in developing a professional, qualified appraisal report, while also informing on the importance of hiring an appraiser with the proper qualifications for credible assignment results.

In addition to ISA’s Appraisal Foundation activity, ISA has been both active and vocal in support of qualified appraisers, promoting our members and seeking excellence and advancement within the profession. ISA initiatives include:

• Partnering with allied professionals such as our affiliation with Chubb Insurance in promoting qualified appraisers and educating users of appraisers
  
• Developing the Circle of Trust (COT), the new coalition of ISA, AAA and ASA to promote qualified appraisers and the appraisal profession
  
• Meeting regularly with allied professionals, educational providers, our compeer organizations and the IRS to discuss appraisal needs from users, and to promote qualified appraisers and appraisals
  
• Hosting the finest personal property appraisal conference
• Growing educational opportunities, mentoring and online programs
  
• Developing and distributing marketing material for ISA members
  
• Promoting the ISA Affinity Business Partner program to develop contacts and network with allied professionals
  
• Partnering with the Foundation for Appraisal Education

The Huffington Post article written by TAF President David Bunton is one of the many important results from our partnership and cooperation with other professional organizations in promoting qualified appraisers. These relationships have become both valuable and significant to ISA from a strategic point of view to augment and enhance our ability to leverage our important message of promoting qualified ISA appraisers to the public.

If you have not already, please take a few minutes to read through the Huffington Post article by David Bunton. To the professional appraiser who follows USPAP and the important qualification criteria, it may not reveal much new information, as ISA has been engaged in promoting our members and the profession for years. However, to users of appraisers, such as collectors, trust and estate planners, wealth managers, accountants, insurance agents, bankers, accountants and other professional users of appraisals, it shows the importance of hiring a professional, qualified appraiser who writes and develops reports to the “generally recognized ethical and performance standards for the appraisal profession in the United States.”

Why 7 Days in Illinois is Totally Worth It

Appraising can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to fine art or antiques, but it doesn't have to be.

ISA’s specialty survey courses on Fine Art and Antiques and Residential Contents, both coming up this October, are the best way to learn the terminology and research practices for these types of appraisals. After seven days of hands-on, interactive instruction from ISA's most experienced instructors and respected certified appraisers, you will leave equipped with the skills you need to expand your appraisal practice.

Don’t miss ISA’s two upcoming specialty courses next month. Registration deadlines are quickly approaching!

ISA’s Appraisal of Fine Art Course
October 19 – 25, 2015
Northern Illinois University - Naperville Campus
Naperville, Illinois
$1,300 ISA members / $1,585 nonmembers
Course instructors: Richard Casagrande, ISA CAPP; Cathy Peters, ISA CAPP; and Meredith Meuwly, ISA CAPP
Registration closes October 9

Description: The Appraisal of Fine Arts course emphasizes the primary categories of fine art frequently encountered by appraisers and dealers: paintings, sculpture, works on paper, frames, and photography. Course participants will learn how to identify, research, and evaluate various forms of art work; distinguish various print processes, properly describe art works using the correct vocabulary; and will also receive an overview of art history and art conservation. A field trip to local museums provides students with close exposure to the property categories being studied. For those seeking accreditation, a post-course appraisal assignment is required, and an exam will be held on the final day. Breakfast and lunch each day is included in the course fee.

ISA’s Antiques and Residential Contents Course
October 26 - November 1, 2015
Northern Illinois University - Naperville Campus
Naperville, Illinois
$1,300 ISA members / $1,585 nonmembers
Course Instructors: Valerie Hale, ISA CAPP; Michael Logan, ISA CAPP; and Intern Instructor, Libby Holloway, ISA CAPP
Registration closes October 16

Description: The Antiques and Residential Contents Course provides information necessary to properly identify and value items within the broad category of antiques and residential contents. Focus is on skill building around analysis of construction and manufacturing; as well as identification of quality, age, and design characteristics of periods and styles. Concepts discussed in class will be reinforced with hands on exercises.  Research, identification, inspection and report writing tips for the appraiser are also discussed. Course sections include furniture (English/American focus), ceramics, glass, silver, toys and dolls, prints, books, textiles, vintage fashions and general household contents among others. The course includes an off-site field trip. For those seeking accreditation, a post-course appraisal assignment is required, and an exam will be held on the final day. Breakfast and lunch each day is included in the course fee.

And remember, successful completion of the Fine Art or Antiques and Residential Contents courses can be used as credit toward fulfilling the required classroom hour requirements for ISA accreditation.

What is the Difference Between the Distance Education Formats

ISA members are invited to send in their questions on all things appraising and education to Leon Castner, ISA CAPP. Leon will share his answers on the ISA Now Blog. Please send questions to leoncastner@comcast.net.

Question: What is the difference between all of the Distance Education formats that ISA has to offer?

Answer: ISA offers three types of distance learning experiences for our students, all of which are excellent venues that provide a class catered to their specific needs. They include the following: regular “Distance Education,” “Self-paced Online,” and “Live Online.”

Regular Distance Education

Regular Distance Education is the “old” version or original version of the process. Students receive their textbooks, a tracking sheet for assignments, and are assigned an instructor who will communicate with them on a regular basis, answering questions and grading lessons. These communications are done via email at the pace of the student. There are numerous assignments or lessons that must be completed after reading chapters in the manual. They are sent to the instructor for grading and are returned as a PASS or a REVISE. The student may not continue until each section has received a PASS. The instructor will offer guidance and review the material on a timely basis. The instructor may be available for a review prior to the final exam, which is usually given via proctor at a local university or institution.

Generous timeframes for the courses are set at the outset with the possibility of extensions. Students proceed at their own pace and are not reminded (pestered) to proceed. Most students have some difficulty in completing these quickly since outside influences often conflict with study time, but they do provide an easy option for those not able to take an on-site offering of the same class. The Core Course in Appraisal Studies, the Requalification class, and the two specialty courses (Antiques & Residential Contents and Fine Art) are all available in this format.

Self-Paced Online

Self-paced online is basically the typical home study version that allows the student to read the material, watch a short video, and then answer assessment questions according to their own schedule. Interaction with an instructor is minimal, but a few assignments are still required that need instructor’s personal approval. A final exam is given, usually administered through the learning program.

We call this the Online Learning Center. Students may send messages through an online forum and progress is tracked automatically as the student continues. The Core Course in Appraisal Studies is currently the main course presented in this manner.

Live Online

A live online class is a webinar type program that uses your computer and/or phone lines to join the class with other students. It is done at specific set times with an instructor who lectures using video chat. Students can usually see the instructor and watch a side screen at the same time. The instructor may use video, power point, or other documents to enhance the presentation, just as on does in a classroom.

Students will be asked to participate by answering questions posed by the instructor. Short breaks may be given during the presentation, especially if the class is over one hour in length. If an exam is given, it may be administered in an online fashion, although most of these courses at present do not include exams, except for the 15-Hour initial USPAP. Attendance is kept by tracking participation by the instructor. This format only requires the use of a computer with microphone/audio capability. The ISA Requalification Course and the USPAP 15- and 7-hour courses are presented in this fashion.

Looks Like We Struck a Chord!

Shelly Berman-Rubera

By Shelly Berman-Rubera, President of Small Business Results, ISA Affinity Business Partner

Dear ISA Members,

I am so proud to have presented the closing keynote at the ISA Assets 2015 conference in Philadelphia. Every attendee was raving about their experience.

In my presentation, “Growing and Propelling Your Appraisal Practice Revenue,” I addressed four major areas of ISA member concern. I hope it is helpful to reiterate the challenges presented and offer a summary of my suggestions here:

Q. How do we compete with free services offered by those less qualified?
A. We don’t! Those seeking free appraisal services are not our target client. We must have the courage to walk away from those clients that are not a right fit for our practice. Learn how to use the time to market to true prospects. ISA members and credentialing are at the cutting edge of the appraisal profession. We can’t work for free and can’t be compared to free or lesser priced appraisers. Educate those who would truly benefit from your level of service as to why your experience and credential should matter to them.

Q. How do we get to the gate keepers?
A. Our networking and outreach must be directed to obtaining beneficial introductions and opening the right doors. Focus on building reciprocal lasting relationships, rather than one-time meetings and pitches.

Q. How do we deal with time management?
A. I suggested that time management is emotional management, and when we manage our feelings and our client’s feelings, we are better equipped at managing our time. I also suggested looking at pricing and packaging. Selling a block of time might be an attractive offer to some clients.

Q. How do I market my business?
A. ISA has marketing pieces that can be co-branded with your business and can be found at the member resources page on the website. This month your organization launched a professional newsletter (login required) with educational content aimed at prospective referral sources. This is a powerful marketing tool that not only promotes the ISA credential but your own expertise as well. Personalize this with your photo and bio, attach to emails to industry referral sources like insurance brokers, estate attorneys and financial planners. Print it and hand out at local business industry meetings. And remember to follow up!

It is important to remember that random acts of kindness are lovely, but random acts of marketing are not effective. Please remember, you are the president of your company! Think strategically, make a commitment to developing systems and structures for everything you do.

My best to all of you, and let me know if I can help,

Shelly Berman-Rubera
President SBR-Small Business Results

Chubb Personal Insurance Connoisseurship Series Featuring the Expertise of ISA Appraisers

By Libby Holloway, ISA CAPP

I believe that everyone who attends ISA’s annual conferences will agree that each year gets better. Not only are the speakers some of the premier experts in the country, but it seems that the last few years have been full of announcements that make my membership with ISA more valuable. We’ve gotten accustomed to going home each year with new marketing tools for our business, as well as new information about changes to USPAP and methodology.

This year, our President Cindy Charleston-Rosenberg, ISA CAPP, surprised us with an opportunity for our members to show that we are experts in our fields. During the annual business meeting, she announced that we will be participating in a series of webinars, exchanging expertise with our Gold Sponsor, Chubb Personal Insurance. We are looking for a few connoisseurs in our own ranks to provide webinars on a broad array of specialties of interest to collectors from coins to cars, Asian ceramics to Abstract Expressionism. A list of vetted webinars and topics will be shared with Chubb as a “menu” from which they may choose.

It is such an honor that Chubb has chosen ISA as the appraisal organization they trust to educate their community of agents, brokers and collectors. Their first webinar presentation to us will be held on May 6 at 2:30 ET by Laura Doyle, Chubb's National Fine Art Specialist, and Melissa Lalka, Chubb's Worldwide Fine Art Manager, on Changing Demographics in Collecting: Covering Passion and Investment Collections. The webinar is free to ISA members and is now open for registration.

Applicants must be members of ISA in good standing who have expertise in connoisseurship in a subject. Each presentation will be a 45-60 minute PowerPoint webinar. A successful applicant will have provided information that shows that they are not only an expert, but have a passion for their topic that translates to the audience. The application will request information on the proposed presentation to include a title, topic abstract, and a brief biography intended to show that the applicant is an expert in the topic area and has experience presenting for a group. We will ask for 2-3 references who have heard the person present and a short video, voice recording or webinar presentation. The applications will be vetted by a committee which will include a member who is not an appraiser but who is an expert in public speaking.

Apply to be a presenter

I will be chairing the committee and will be available to answer any questions you might have. Please feel free to contact me at libby@LibbyHollowayAppraisals.com.

Where are YOU on the ISA Credentialing Pathway?

As we come to the end of our first day of ISA's premier educational event of the year, Assets 2015, it’s important to ask yourself: Where am I on the ISA Credential Pathway?

Open to members and nonmembers, ISA's professional development and certification courses come in an array of course formats that make it easy to advance your industry-related learning. On-site courses afford you the opportunity to receive instruction while collaborating with peers in group activities. The Online Learning Center provides members unable to travel with real-time online presentations and a self-paced Core Course option, while Distance Education allows you to complete coursework via email. And last but certainly not least, our incredibly convenient webinars give users access to a rich archive of recorded sessions (some of which are free!).

So whether you're starting the credentialing process (Stage 1) with the Core Course in Appraisal Studies and the 15-Hour USPAP Course; building your credentials (Stage 2) with more specific areas of expertise; maintaining your status (Stage 3) through requalification courses; or advancing your knowledge (Stage 4) in your area of focus, ISA education allows you to take part in courses led by some of the most accomplished, knowledgeable professionals in the appraisal industry.

Here are our upcoming courses in June. View the full 2015 course offering on the ISA website.

June 1–7
Core Course in Appraisal Studies
Instructors: Leon Castner, ISA CAPP & Kathryn Minard, ISA CAPP
Arts and Letters Club of Toronto

June 9–10
15 Hour Personal Property USPAP Course
Instructor: Leon Castner, ISA CAPP
Arts and Letters Club of Toronto

June 15–17
Asian Art I: Appraisal of Japanese Prints
Instructor: Daphne Rosenzweig, PhD, ISA CAPP
NIU – Naperville Campus in Naperville, IL

June 18–20
Asian Art III: Foundation Course in Asian Ceramics for Appraisers
Instructor: Susan Lahey, ISA
NIU – Naperville Campus in Naperville, IL

As we head into Assets 2015, we encourage you to seek out educational opportunities, share information and resources with your industry peers and fellow Assets attendees, and continue down that ever-rewarding Credentialing Pathway.