How To Get Back Artworks From a Gallery in New York?

[spicybabes]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

I tried to get my 7 artworks who where on consignment in N.Y, the gallery want me to pay for the frames, knowing my rights I refused, now they want me to pay for a "suppose specialist" to un-frame them. What can I do? Can I make a report to the police? Is there a lawyer that knows "art laws" from N.Y who can send them a letter!! ANY HELP IS WELCOME!What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[justalayman]

the first thing you need to do is refer to your contract. You often find all the answers right there.

So, did you agree to have them placed in the frames? Who paid for the mounting?

What it sounds like is they do not want the liability of demounting the artwork so hiring a specialist would be a reasonable accommodation. I would suggest you hire your own person to demount them or sign tons of paperwork releasing the gallery of all liability for any damage to the artwork and you accepting all liability for any damage to any of the frames.

 

[spicybabes]

I have done some research and find this law in N.York concerning art , can someone explain it in plain language. Also can I go strait to the police?

Article 12 - (12.01 - 12.03).. Under Section 12.01(a)(v) of New York's Arts and Cultural Affairs Laws a gallery hold these works as trust property, which shall not "be subject or subordinate to any claim, lien or security interest of any kind or nature whatsoever. See Zucker v. Hirschl & Adler galleries, Inc. 170 Misc.2d 426, 648 N.Y.S.2d 521 (Sup.Ct., N.Y.Co 1996).

 

[Hot Topic]

Why did you ignore justalayman's post? Your questions should be answered in the contract you signed with the art gallery.

What "rights" are you talking about when it comes to frames?

What are you going to charge the art gallery with?