Urban Art Association

Sounds like normal for Hang-Up. It may have been framed by the best in the business but that doesn't mean that the print wasn't already mauled before it was framed or reframed.

I've seen some prints that on my close inspection 'look fine', then I've seen a condition report for the same print that points out repair/s... so even if the print 'looks' ok the the real value would potentially be impacted. 

Considering the current prices gallery's are asking I'd only consider buying from them if either they have a condition report or are willing to have a report carried out, and absolutely never buy a framed print without being able to inspect it out of its frame.

As if it isn't hard enough trying to locate a decent print, some gallery's really need to up their standards and provide a better service.

Does anyone know of a UK gallery where my dilemma isn't going to be an issue ?

I think you are right to demand an independant inspection before purchase. You are spending a lot of money and condition is everything.

Either the gallery was trying to shush you out the door or they weren't being transparent. Proceed cautiously. There are plenty of other avenues for Banksy prints.

I'm prepared and I'm sure others are willing to pay a premium for a condition report, especially when many pieces are now exceeding 20k.... as a buyer and (none expert) the risk of not having this in too great a risk.

Gallery's need to ensure quality and raise their standards, any that do will get my business.

I've just had a quick search of gallery associations/ society's, which there are many and none of them lay out the standards expected for their members.... welcome to the art world I guess!

I have had dealings with Ben from Hang up gallery and found him to be a gentleman, easy to deal with and very honest........ Of course you would get your money back if you had any problems!

Hi CAT,

As initially asked, I was concerned that my visit to a north London Gallery was less than impressive.

When I asked the sales person about having condition report, their response was no, and that they do not entertain independent inspections. So I asked the forum if this is general practice. 

After looking into (although briefly) generic art gallery codes of conduct as per their associations and societys, I  see there are no policies placed on independent condition reports for buyers.

Some gallery's are obviously better than others as mentioned in the thread i.e Castle Gallery.  I was hoping that there would be a 'list' of standards or policies that reputable galleries would adhere too which would allay my concerns and address independent condition reports.

Maybe it would be a good thing to have general standards and best practices applied across the industry for clarity and to weed out the lacklustre from the exemplary and to independently verify art work condition or even condition reporting to a set of industry standards.