The Vernon Public Art Gallery welcomes local art and antique appraiser Peter Blundell and Vancouver’s Anthony Westbridge for another fascinating art and antique appraisal session.
They bring their Antiques and Art from the Attic to the gallery Thursday.
Blundell and Westbridge visited the VPAG exactly one year ago, where they appraised some interesting finds including a large tapestry, an ornate porcelain tea pot, a sword, and a collectable Beatles action figure set.
“It’s always interesting to see what guests bring to the appraisal sessions. No matter the monetary worth, learning a bit about the history of something valuable to you and your family can make the item invaluable,” said Dauna Kennedy Grant, VPAG executive director. “Much like art, treasures and heirlooms are meaningful and give people great joy or tell a wonderful story. We welcome auditors to come and watch and learn at our very own Antique Road Show at the gallery.”
A longtime publisher of Collector’s Dictionary of Canadian Artists at Auction, and The Canadian Art Sales Index, published for the last 30 years, Westbridge will be performing verbal opinions of market value on original art.
Westbridge assesses a wide variety of art and is particularly interested in Canadian art and sculpture. He says he is looking forward to returning to the Okanagan with hopes that a rare, unique, or highly sought after piece of art is discovered.
Blundell will also be performing verbal opinions of market value on antiques and collectibles, with some exceptions. He cannot appraise jewelry, coins, stamps, guns, and wristwatches. However, pocket watches and swords may be brought in. Individuals who wish to have large furniture pieces assessed are asked to bring in a portion of the piece, such as a drawer along with a photograph, and the item’s measurements. (Items thought to be more than 400 years old cannot be assessed in this format.)
Only three items will be permitted per 15 minute booking, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday. Cost is $40 per session. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. Contact 250-545-3173 to book.
Partial proceeds benefit exhibitions and programming at the VPAG. Public spectators are also welcome at no additional charge.
