Gallery C — Attraction in Raleigh

I went to the gallery for a scheduled appointment to discuss 5 Haitian paintings I have owned (inherited) for nearly 10 years. The gallery was currently holding a showing of Haitian art and I assumed that the gallery owner would have extensive knowledge of the art medium/form. I had gone on the internet and searched basic information on the three artists. When we first arrived, the owner greeted us and immediately took a phone call even though it was our appointment time. When she returned, she spent 5-10 minutes telling us about her education and extensive knowledge in the art field....(she even stated, "I know more than just about anyone...."). She commented on the "moldy" condition of the art...they were painted in 1962(ish) on feed sacks (what you would expect from Haiti during that time period). The appointment lasted about 15 minutes. It was clearly obvious that I knew way more than she did about the art simply from getting on the internet....she made comments about unimportant characteristics of the paintings (subject matter) but did not extensively examine any of the pieces including the signatures of the art. She would not give me any idea of the value of any of the pieces other than that the largest piece was not worth $5000 (which was my question). I knew that I was not getting a formal appraisal of the art, but she would not even comment on what the range of value they held. I was NOT impressed with her knowledge, approach or customer service. For this 15 minute chit-chat, and $100, I walked out without any further knowledge than what I learned on the internet. She had done NO background research on the artists even though I had provided names of the artists days before the appointment. The visit was a TOTAL waste of my time and money and I would not go to this gallery again...

I arrived at Gallery C on a special weekend when the owner , Charlene Newsome, was promoting one of her favorite artists with an out door party and cook out! It was so much fun. Charlene personally showed me around and showed real interest in my tastes and needs and budget. I had just stopped in to see why there was a crowd there and left with a beautiful painting that is hanging this day in my living room and is a constant conversation piece. Later , I came upon an article in Walter Magazine that was authored by Charlene. As it turns out, she has art history credentials that got her a reoccurring column! Gallery C is located in an historic home in downtown Raleigh that is a perfect venue for viewing art. Big rooms, tall ceilings and...

I have had several art evaluations done by Charlene over the years and it has been my experience that they were excellent in both content and advice. Her comments on condition, the potential for selling my pieces and the price ranges pertaining to the current market were very helpful to me.

She offers her professional services at $100 for up to one hour of her time. I feel that she has saved me from wasting a lot of time and money by not doing all of the research that is required for an actual appraisal.

I owned an art gallery for over 40 years and am retired and not in the business anymore. I have known Charlene for the last 20 or so years and have the upmost respect for her expertise. She has guided me well with her...