James brings wealth of experience to his role as Head of Paintings at Halls.

Halls is very happy to announce the appointment of James Forster to run the company’s well established picture department.

He has previously worked for both Sothebys and Bonhams as a picture specialist as well as running his own consultancy providing a valuation and auction service for private clients. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role and knows the Welsh borders well, currently living in Herefordshire.

Having opened its bespoke salerooms two years ago, Halls provides an ideal venue to showcase significant works of art.

“I am really looking forward to the challenge of expanding Halls’ picture department,” said Mr Forster, the company’s new head of pictures. “We have a great team here at the Shrewsbury auction room and a first class building in which to showcase and sell significant artworks. Our core aim is to provide an excellent personal service to our clients.

“At Halls our focus is also on maximising value for our vendors. We have a national and international buyer base combined with a strong internet presence which enables us to effectively sell high value items.

“We can do this at a lower cost to our vendors than the competition in London. In many areas of the picture market the focus has shifted to the regions and the advantages of selling through a leading regional room are numerous.”

Mr Forster will be looking not only to build on Halls’ strengths of selling more traditional pictures, but will use his experience of contemporary and post-war art to develop and expand the department’s remit.

He has experience of exhibiting and representing contemporary artists and a strong interest in post war British art, including Welsh 20th century artists such as Will Roberts, David Jones, Christopher Williams and Sir Kyffin Williams RA.
James is currently consigning selected paintings, watercolours and prints to his autumn auction and is looking forward to travelling throughout Wales and central England valuing pictures for this and future sales.

There will also be a number of valuation events, including a valuation day at the Castle Hotel, Brecon on Friday, June 19, from 11am to 3pm.

If you are considering selling a painting, or you wish to have a valuation, please do not hesitate to contact James Forster on jamesf@hallsgb.com or 01743 450 700.