Symposia

2016 - Management of artists' estates

On the evening of 20 January 2016, around 130 participants left the ‘Management of artists’ estates‘ symposium with many new insights into the topic of artists’ estates. In eight varied presentations and dialogues, the various aspects - from an artist's own organisation to tax and legal issues - of estate management were discussed. Under the moderation of Stefan Koldehoff, the nine speakers presented their areas of expertise and provided insights into the practical handling of artists' estates.

2017 - Assigning a value to art

In the event of inheritance, foundation contribution, donation, gift, property settlement, insurance and damage, art objects must be assigned a monetary value. In our symposium, we want to provide answers to the following questions: Who values art and according to what criteria? How can valuations be verified? What options are available? Who is liable for valuation errors? What are the requirements for the valuation of individual works, entire collections or estates? Experts, representatives of law firms, insurance companies and the tax authorities will discuss these issues and offer practical solutions.

2019 - The human factor

The central theme of the symposium ‘Der Faktor Mensch’ on 9 April 2019 is the generational transition in relation to art. The symposium is part of a series of events to mark the 60th anniversary of VAN HAM Kunstauktionen.

The symposium will take an interdisciplinary approach to the field in order to bring together those directly involved, such as collectors, artists and gallery owners, as well as professionals working in the field, and to place biographical upheavals in a broader context of understanding. The current state of research on generational succession will be presented on the podium, especially with regard to the protagonists with a connection to art. Sociological and psychological findings will be brought together with expertise on inheritance and foundation law through to valuation issues. This is because the value of art as determined by experts is often decisive in determining whether the solutions envisaged are appropriate in individual cases due to possible tax burdens or compulsory portion claims. The panel will be guided by the conviction that it is possible for those involved to organise the transfer in a legally correct and satisfactory manner for all parties involved.