Collectors expect to find rare, original paintings, sculpture and fine jewelry at an international art show of the caliber of Naples International Art & Antique Fair. But not three Monets, three Renoirs, two Sisleys and Pissarros, a Picasso and a Miro at a single exhibitor. Yet, Gladwell & Co. has all of these, and more.
"People are often surprised when they come to Gladwell's booth and find the Monets, Renoirs and Sisleys," acknowledges Gladwell's Glenn A Fuller. "It is exciting for them and for us to bring such an incredible selection of paintings from our galleries in the U.K. But we are also careful to include some contemporary painters who we think will one day be regarded as the truly important painters of this age and generation."
Fuller and his Gladwell brethren know a little something about vetting artistic talent. As London's oldest gallery, Gladwell & Company has been finding and representing elite artists for 259 years.
Founded in 1752 by John Boydell, the gallery originally specialized in the commission of fine prints from Reynolds, Romney, Fuseli and other prominent artists of that period. The business expanded over the years into etchings, mezzotints and finally fine oil paintings and watercolors. Today, Glenn, his father, Anthony and the rest of the Gladwell team are recognized worldwide for their connoisseurship, and they are frequently asked to consult on matters of authenticity, condition and value for probate, insurance and other purposes.
One might expect art dealers with such a long and distinguished pedigree to be aloof, haughty and even a bit self-important. Visitors to Gladwell's diggs at Naples International will be pleasantly surprised yet again. Glenn Fuller could not be more affable, engaging or genuine. "The art world is about building relationships," Fuller humbly observes. "It's about selling yourself and creating trust. Every time we purchase a painting, our reputation is at stake because we only sell paintings to our clients that we first purchase for ourselves."
As a result of their unique buying and selling philosophy, Glenn and his father come to regard each painting in their galleries as a member of their tightly-knit family. "It's important for us to help them all find good homes." That's why he appreciates the southwest Florida art market. "People here buy art not because of the artist's name or for bragging rights, but because they are sincerely motivated by their love of art and the opportunity to own a small piece of art history."
This passion for pictures explains why some families return to Gladwell & Company generation after generation from all over the world when it is time for them to acquire new art. You can experience this difference for yourself at Naples International Art & Antique Fair. The show continues tomorrow and Tuesday at the Naples International Pavilion located at 4835 Immokalee Road in North Naples. It's located at the intersection of Immokalee Road and Livingston Road, just one-half mile west of the I-75 interchange.
For more information about Gladwell & Company, please telephone 215-200-7022 or visit www.gladwells.com. For more information about Naples International Art & Antique Fair, please telephone 239-949-5411 or visit www.ifae.com.
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