Wilfried Laforge assists both new clients embarking on their first acquisition and seasoned collectors looking to expand or refine their collections. Wilfried is committed to providing transparent, informed, and inspired guidance at every stage of the process—from the first conversation to the final transaction. Whether based in Paris, New York, Miami, or beyond, he tailors his services to each client’s unique goals, aesthetic sensibility, and collecting vision.
—Approach
Wilfried’s expertise in contemporary art draws equally from his experience in the art market and academia. Over the years, he has built a trusted network of partners, colleagues, and artists, allowing him to offer truly à la carte advisory services. His approach integrates theoretical insight with practical expertise to meet the needs of clients seeking to understand not only the visible aspects of the art world, but also the deeper ideas, choices, and intuitions that shape their collecting practice.
This dual foundation—academic and market-based—is an invaluable asset, enabling clients to access a broad range of artists, dealers, and galleries, and to acquire works through a thoughtful and informed process.Wilfried’s extensive and versatile network, which spans every facet of today’s art ecosystem, allows him to tailor each project to the specific needs of individual collectors. His services may include historical or iconographic research, the conception and writing of catalogues or booklets, the sourcing of rare or hard-to-find works, or the coordination of site-specific projects involving complex technical or architectural considerations. —Services
• Art Acquisition: Guidance for purchasing works on both the primary and secondary markets. • Collection Development: Strategic advice for building, refining, or diversifying collections. • Research & Documentation: Historical and theoretical studies, catalogue essays, and booklet writing to enrich and contextualize collections. • Loan Management: Assistance with museum and foundation loans. • Logistics: Coordination of shipping, installation, and long-term conservation planning. • Site-Specific Projects: Tailored collaborations with architects, institutions, or artists. • Practical Support: Guidance on insurance, taxation, transport, and legal aspects of art ownership.
To enhance the collector’s experience, Wilfried also offers guided visits to art fairs, galleries, and artists’ studios, as well as personalized sessions designed to deepen clients’ understanding of art history, theory, and market trends.
—Process Acquiring a work of art—or building a collection with intention—can be a complex and time-consuming process, whatever the underlying motivation. From the initial conversation to post-acquisition support, each phase of this journey reflects the collector’s unique expectations and goals. Whether it involves discovering and acquiring works that align with a client’s vision, exploring the theoretical foundations of collecting, or selecting pieces for a specific site, the possibilities are vast and tailored to each individual’s experience, preferences, and availability.
The first meeting is essential in defining the relationship between advisor and client. It establishes the foundation of trust upon which all further collaboration is built, ensuring that the service is precisely aligned with the client’s needs. Subsequent work can take many forms—from locating a specific artwork and negotiating its acquisition to methodically selecting pieces that refine the collector’s eye and deepen their understanding.Whether seeking a single acquisition or ongoing guidance, Wilfried Laforge Advisory extends its engagement well beyond the transaction. Post-purchase services include loan management, storage, insurance, and conservation—ensuring that every artwork, and every collection, is cared for with expertise and attention to detail.
For any inquiries, please contact wilfried@wlaforge.com or complete the form on the contact page.
