Art can transform a space from forgettable to unforgettable. But only if it's done right. These five art advisory firms know how to make that happen.
The Art Advisory Landscape
Art advisory is no longer just about picking pretty pictures. It's about strategy, brand alignment, and creating experiences. Global brands, hospitality groups, and developers now use art to tell stories, engage guests, and build culture. The firms in this space range from boutique curators to full-service program managers. They handle everything from artist commissions to multi-site installations. The best ones embed art into the core of a project, not as an afterthought. That's why choosing the right partner matters more than ever.
How We Evaluated These Firms
We looked at service scope, from strategy to installation. We considered pricing clarity and how transparent each firm is about budgets. We assessed local fit and global reach. We examined their portfolio diversity across hospitality, workplace, and healthcare. We also weighed their approach to artist collaborations and collection management. Each firm stood out in different ways. Farmboy excels at strategic integration and multi-site execution. Riggs Art Consultants shines in process-driven delivery. Kevin Barry Art Advisory brings deep hospitality expertise. DAC Art Consulting offers sector-specific programs. Art Consulting provides curatorial rigor and institutional knowledge. No single firm is perfect for everyone, but each has clear strengths.
Here's a quick comparison of the five firms, so you can see which might fit your project.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Riggs Art Consultants | Businesses seeking a structured, process-driven art program |
| Farmboy – International Art Advisory | Global brands and design firms needing strategic art integration |
| Kevin Barry Art Advisory | Hotels and resorts seeking custom art that enhances guest experience |
| DAC Art Consulting | Developers and designers in senior living, multi-family, and hospitality |
| Art Consulting | Collectors and institutions needing curatorial expertise and collection strategy |
A Closer Look at Each Firm
#1 Riggs Art Consultants
A screenshot of the Riggs Art Consultants website.
Riggs Art Consultants is a full-service art consulting and strategic planning firm based in New York. They partner with companies, owners, and creatives to curate and deliver distinctive art programs. Their three-stage process—Discover, Design, Deliver—ensures projects stay on time and on budget. They prioritize communication and project management, acting as an extension of your team. Their focus is on adding value to your brand through art that works for your business. Learn more about their process on their website.
#2 Farmboy – International Art Advisory
A screenshot of the Farmboy – International Art Advisory website.
Farmboy is a full-service art advisory that partners with global brands and design firms to embed art into hospitality, workplace, and mixed-use spaces. They offer strategy, collection design, artist commissions, and multi-site execution. Their approach treats art as a strategic tool, not a finishing touch. They engage early to define how art functions within a space, shaping identity and reinforcing brand. With a global reach and a focus on measurable impact, they help clients create impactful art programs. See their work on their website.
#3 Kevin Barry Art Advisory
A screenshot of the Kevin Barry Art Advisory website.
Kevin Barry Art Advisory specializes in hospitality art consulting, with a history dating back to 1984. Their team of 20 consultants works with major hotel brands like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt. They focus on creating memorable guest experiences through custom artwork. Their philosophy centers on reflecting a property's ethos and making it feel like home. They have deep relationships in the hospitality industry and a global portfolio. Explore their hospitality projects on their website.
#4 DAC Art Consulting
A screenshot of the DAC Art Consulting website.
DAC Art Consulting is a women-led firm that curates art programs across multiple sectors, including hospitality, senior living, multi-family, and corporate. They focus on mindful art programs that inspire connection through art and design. Their team brings deep expertise and fresh perspectives to each project. They partner with design teams to select art that aligns with brand identity and enhances ambiance. Their portfolio includes work with over 100 clients. Learn more about their sector-specific approach on their website.
#5 Art Consulting
A screenshot of the Art Consulting website.
Art Consulting is led by art historian Marina Pizziolo and critic Romano Ravasio, offering curatorial rigor and institutional knowledge. They serve collectors, companies, and institutions, focusing on building collections with defined criteria. Their services include collection management, public art projects, and artist selection. They emphasize that art in a company is either a cultural decision or decoration. Their method-driven approach ensures coherence and long-term value. Discover their philosophy on their website.
How to Choose the Right Art Advisory Partner
Start by defining your goals. Are you looking to enhance brand identity, create a memorable guest experience, or build a collection? Next, consider your sector. Hospitality projects need firms with hotel expertise, while corporate collections may require curatorial rigor. Look at their portfolio to see if they've worked on similar projects. Ask about their process and how they handle budgets and timelines. Finally, consider their network of artists and their ability to execute multi-site installations. The right partner will feel like an extension of your team.
Streamlining Art Program Management
Managing an art program involves many moving parts: artist commissions, fabrication, logistics, and installation. Many firms use project management tools to keep everything on track. Some offer online portals for clients to review and approve artworks. Automation can help with procurement, contracts, and delivery tracking. But the creative process still requires a human touch. The best firms balance technology with personal service.
Final Thoughts
Art advisory is a strategic investment. The right firm can transform your space and elevate your brand. Whether you need a full-service partner like Farmboy or a hospitality specialist like Kevin Barry, there's a firm for you. Evaluate your needs, review their portfolios, and choose a partner who understands your vision. With the right team, art becomes more than decoration—it becomes a powerful asset.