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Top 11 Art Consultant Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 19 min read

Certifications are important for art consultants in the job market because they provide validation of their professional qualifications and expertise. They show potential employers that the individual has received formal training in the field, has a deep understanding of the industry, and is up to date on current trends and best practices. Certifications also demonstrate an individual’s commitment to their profession and can help set them apart from other candidates in a competitive job market. Additionally, certifications may be required for certain positions or roles, so having one can make an art consultant more attractive to employers.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Art Consultants and explain how they can enhance an art consultant's career.

What are Art Consultant Certifications?

Art consultant certification is an educational program designed to help professionals gain the skills and knowledge needed to become successful art advisors. This certification focuses on understanding the various aspects of the art industry, including art history, market trends, and techniques for evaluating artwork. It also covers topics such as portfolio building, client relations, and marketing.

The main benefit of obtaining art consultant certification is that it can help one better understand the complexities of the art world. By gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the industry, certified art consultants can provide more accurate advice to clients when they are making decisions regarding their investments in artwork. Certified professionals can also provide insight into current trends in the art market, allowing clients to make informed decisions about their purchases. Additionally, having a certification can increase one's credibility and demonstrate expertise in this field. Finally, certified consultants may be able to access exclusive resources and networks that may not otherwise be available to them.

Pro Tip: When researching art consultant certification, look for programs that are accredited by a reputable organization and offer a comprehensive curriculum. Additionally, make sure the program provides hands-on experience and allows you to network with industry professionals.

Related: What does an Art Consultant do?

Top 11 Art Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Art Consultants today.

1. International Association of Professional Art Advisors (IAPAA) Certification

The International Association of Professional Art Advisors (IAPAA) is a professional organization that provides certification for art advisors. The IAPAA Certification is designed to recognize the highest standards of excellence in the field of art advisory services. It is a mark of distinction that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to providing quality advice and service to clients.

To obtain the IAPAA Certification, applicants must complete a comprehensive application process which includes passing an examination and meeting certain educational and professional experience requirements. The application process typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the applicant’s prior experience and qualifications.

In order to apply for the IAPAA Certification, applicants must first submit an application package which includes their resume, references, transcripts from any relevant courses taken, and other documents as requested by the IAPAA. Once this package has been reviewed, applicants will be invited to take the IAPAA Certification Examination. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as art history, market analysis, legal issues in art advisory services, ethical practices in art advisory services, and more. Applicants must pass this exam with a score of at least 70% in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the IAPAA Certification varies depending on several factors including the applicant’s location and whether or not they have already completed any relevant coursework or training programs. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for all associated fees including examination fees and membership dues.

2. Art Business Consultant Certification (ABCC)

The Art Business Consultant Certification (ABCC) is a certification program designed to help art professionals and entrepreneurs develop their skills in the business of art. It is a comprehensive program that covers topics such as marketing, finance, legal issues, and more. The ABCC is offered through the International Association of Professional Art Advisors (IAPAA).

The ABCC program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on the fundamentals of art business consulting, while Level 2 focuses on advanced topics such as strategic planning, pricing strategies, and negotiation tactics. Each level requires completion of an online course and passing an exam. The total time required for both levels combined is approximately 40 hours.

In order to receive the ABCC certification, applicants must complete both levels and pass their exams with a score of 80% or higher. Applicants must also provide proof of at least two years’ experience in the art industry or related field.

The cost for the ABCC program varies depending on whether you are taking one level or both levels together. For one level only, the cost is $495 USD; for both levels together it is $895 USD. This fee includes access to all course materials and exams as well as an official certificate upon successful completion of the program.

3. Certified Art Advisor (CAA)

A Certified Art Advisor (CAA) is a professional who has achieved a high level of expertise in the field of art advisory. The CAA credential is offered by the International Society of Appraisers (ISA), and it is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery in the art advisory field.

The CAA program requires applicants to complete a two-part examination process, including an online examination and an in-person practical examination. The online exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test the applicant’s knowledge of art history, appraisal principles, and ethical standards. The practical exam includes hands-on evaluation of artwork and appraisal reports.

To become certified as a CAA, applicants must have at least five years of experience in the art advisory field or related fields such as appraising or curating. They must also have completed at least 30 hours of approved continuing education courses within the past three years. Additionally, they must submit letters of recommendation from two professional references and provide proof that they are members in good standing with their local ISA chapter.

The cost for becoming a CAA varies depending on the region; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This fee covers both parts of the examination process as well as any additional fees associated with membership in ISA or other organizations.

4. Certified Appraiser of Fine and Decorative Arts (CAFDA)

Certified Appraiser of Fine and Decorative Arts (CAFDA) is a professional certification program offered by the International Society of Appraisers (ISA). It is designed to provide appraisers with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to conduct professional appraisals of fine and decorative arts. To become a CAFDA, applicants must meet specific educational requirements, pass an exam, and complete a minimum number of appraisal hours.

The process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the applicant’s background and experience. Applicants must first submit an application to ISA that includes proof of their education and/or experience in the field. They must also submit a $100 nonrefundable application fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an online course that covers topics such as art history, valuation theory, ethics, legal considerations, research techniques and more. Upon completion of the coursework, applicants must take an exam which consists of both written and practical components. After passing the exam they are required to complete 400 hours of appraisal assignments under supervision from an ISA certified mentor before they can be awarded their CAFDA designation.

The cost for the CAFDA program varies depending on the applicant’s individual situation but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD including tuition fees for the online coursework and exam fees as well as mentoring fees if applicable.

5. American Society of Appraisers (ASA) Designation

The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) is a professional association that provides accreditation and education for appraisers. The ASA designation is the highest level of accreditation an appraiser can obtain, and is recognized as the premier credential in the appraisal profession.

To obtain the ASA designation, an individual must have at least five years of experience in appraisal practice, complete a minimum of 200 hours of approved courses, pass a comprehensive written examination, and adhere to a strict code of ethics. The process typically takes two to three years to complete.

The cost for obtaining the ASA designation varies depending on the type of courses taken and other factors. Generally speaking, individuals can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 for all fees associated with obtaining the designation. This includes registration fees, course fees, exam fees, and any other related expenses.

In addition to providing recognition within the appraisal profession, having an ASA designation may also provide access to additional career opportunities such as higher pay or more prestigious positions within organizations.

6. National Association of Professional Appraisers (NAPA) Certification

The National Association of Professional Appraisers (NAPA) Certification is a professional designation that recognizes the highest level of competency in the appraisal field. This certification requires a commitment to continuing education, professional development, and ethical conduct.

To obtain the NAPA Certification, an individual must complete a rigorous application process that includes passing an examination and meeting experience requirements. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral interview. The written portion covers topics such as appraisal theory, methodology, and practice. The oral interview assesses the applicant’s knowledge and experience in the appraisal profession.

The entire process typically takes between six months to one year to complete. During this time, applicants are required to attend seminars or workshops related to appraisal practice, participate in continuing education courses, and maintain their membership with NAPA.

The cost of obtaining NAPA Certification varies depending on the applicant’s experience level and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 for all fees associated with the application process including exam fees and membership dues.

7. International Society of Appraisers (ISA) Accreditation

The International Society of Appraisers (ISA) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides professional appraisal education and accreditation to its members. The ISA Accreditation Program is designed to ensure that appraisers have the knowledge, experience, and ethical standards necessary to provide accurate and reliable valuations.

To become accredited by the ISA, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time appraisal experience in their chosen specialty area; they must also complete a series of courses offered by the ISA. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a written examination administered by the ISA.

Once applicants have met all of these requirements, they can apply for accreditation with the ISA. The process typically takes four to six months from start to finish.

The cost of becoming accredited through the ISA varies depending on which courses are taken and how many exams are required. Generally speaking, it will cost between $800-$1,500 for tuition fees and exam fees combined.

8. Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) Certification

The Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) Certification is a program designed to recognize the highest standards of professional picture framing. It is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a framer's commitment to excellence and dedication to the craft.

To receive PPFA Certification, a framer must have at least two years of experience in the field and complete an extensive training program. The program consists of both online and in-person training sessions, which cover topics such as design principles, matting techniques, frame construction, conservation methods, and customer service. Upon successful completion of the training program, the framer will be awarded with their PPFA Certification.

It typically takes around six months to complete the PPFA Certification program. During this time, framers are expected to attend all required classes and pass all necessary tests.

In order to get started with the PPFA Certification program, a framer must first submit an application along with proof of experience in the field. After submitting their application, they will be contacted by a representative from the PPFA who will provide them with further instructions on how to proceed with their certification process.

The cost for obtaining PPFA Certification varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges between $500-$1,000 USD. This fee covers all costs associated with completing the certification program including registration fees for classes and tests as well as any materials needed for completion of assignments.

9. International Foundation for Art Research (IFAR) Certificate

The International Foundation for Art Research (IFAR) Certificate is an authentication service that helps to verify the authenticity of works of art. It is designed to provide a comprehensive and reliable record of provenance and other relevant information about a work of art. The IFAR Certificate is issued by IFAR's Authentication Research Service, which has been in operation since 1967.

The process of obtaining an IFAR Certificate typically takes between three and six months, depending on the complexity of the artwork being authenticated. To get an IFAR Certificate, one must first submit all available documentation regarding the artwork to IFAR’s Authentication Research Service. This includes photographs, documents, and any other evidence that may help with the authentication process. Once all materials have been received, a team of experts will review the evidence and make a determination as to whether or not the artwork is authentic.

The cost for an IFAR Certificate varies depending on the type and complexity of the artwork being authenticated. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

10. American Alliance of Museums (AAM) Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions

The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions is a set of professional standards and guidelines that provide guidance to museum professionals on the best practices for creating, installing, and maintaining museum exhibitions. The standards cover all aspects of exhibition design, installation, and maintenance, from the initial concept to the final evaluation.

It takes approximately one year to complete the process of obtaining AAM Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions certification. The first step is to review and understand the standards as outlined in the AAM’s publication “Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions”. This includes understanding how each standard applies to your own museum's specific situation. Once you have an understanding of the standards, you must then develop an implementation plan for meeting them within your museum's specific context. This plan must include a timeline for completing tasks, roles and responsibilities for staff members involved in meeting the standards, and any additional resources needed to meet them. Once your implementation plan has been approved by AAM staff, you can begin work on meeting the standards.

To obtain AAM Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions certification, museums must submit evidence that demonstrates they have met all applicable requirements outlined in their implementation plan and are compliant with all applicable AAM Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions standards. This evidence may include photographs or videos of completed installations; written documentation such as policies or procedures; reports from evaluations or surveys; or other materials related to exhibition design or installation processes. Once this evidence has been reviewed by AAM staff and found to be satisfactory, a certificate will be issued indicating that the museum has met all applicable requirements for certification under AAM Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions standards.

The cost associated with obtaining AAM Professional Practices in Museum Exhibitions certification varies depending on the size and scope of a museum's project as well as its individual needs and circumstances. Generally speaking, however, most museums will need to budget between $2,000-5,000 USD for expenses related to developing an implementation plan; researching relevant materials; submitting evidence; and receiving feedback from AAM staff during their review process.

11. International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC-CHAW) Certificate

The International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC-CHAW) Certificate is an internationally recognized qualification in the field of conservation. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles, practice and ethics of conservation. The certificate is designed to provide a sound foundation for those wishing to pursue a career in the conservation profession or for those who wish to gain an understanding of the methods used by conservators.

The IIC-CHAW Certificate is awarded after successful completion of a series of modules which cover topics such as materials science, preventive conservation, history and philosophy of conservation, and practical techniques. The modules are available online or in person at various locations around the world.

In order to obtain the IIC-CHAW Certificate, students must complete all required modules within two years. Each module consists of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions and assessments. Upon successful completion of all modules, students will receive their certificate from IIC-CHAW.

The cost for obtaining the IIC-CHAW Certificate varies depending on where you take your courses and how many modules you need to complete. Generally speaking, each module costs between €200–500 (approximately $230–575). In addition to course fees there may be additional costs associated with attending lectures or tutorials in person if these are available in your area.

Do You Really Need a Art Consultant Certificate?

No, you do not need an art consultant certificate to be a successful art consultant. While having a certificate can be beneficial in some cases, it is not always necessary. Many art consultants have gained expertise and knowledge through years of experience in the field, without ever obtaining any formal certification.

The most important factor for success as an art consultant is having a deep understanding and appreciation of different forms of art and being able to effectively communicate that knowledge to clients. A good art consultant must also possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with both artists and collectors. Being highly organized and efficient is also essential, as this will help ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.

In addition to these skills, it is also important for an art consultant to understand the business aspect of their job. They should have a good grasp on how to market themselves, set prices for their services, handle contracts and other paperwork, etc. Having a background in finance or accounting can be particularly helpful here.

While having an art consultant certificate can be beneficial in some cases, it is not always necessary for success in this profession. Ultimately, what matters most is having the right combination of knowledge, skills, and experience in order to become a successful art consultant.

Related: Art Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Art Consultant Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an art consultant?

Answer: To become an art consultant, you typically need a bachelor's degree in art history, visual arts, or related field. Other qualifications may include experience in the art industry and knowledge of market trends and valuation methods.

2. How long does it take to get certified as an art consultant?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as an art consultant depends on the specific certification program you choose. Generally, certification programs require anywhere from six months to two years of study and training before you can be certified.

3. Are there any online courses available for becoming an art consultant?

Answer: Yes, there are a variety of online courses available for those looking to become an art consultant. These courses cover topics such as the fundamentals of the art market, collecting strategies, legal issues related to artwork ownership, and more.

4. Is there a fee associated with becoming an art consultant?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs will require some sort of fee for enrollment or tuition costs. It is important to research each program carefully before committing to one in order to determine what fees are involved and if they are within your budget.

5. What types of jobs can I get with my art consultant certification?

Answer: With your certification as an art consultant, you may be able to find employment opportunities in galleries, museums, auction houses, private collections, interior design firms, and other organizations related to the visual arts industry. You could also offer freelance services such as appraisals or advice on buying/selling artwork for individuals or businesses.

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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