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A Throwback to Storytelling of the ICEFAT membership
Since 2021, the ICEFAT blog has published 30 in-depth case studies, each addressing key topics and challenges that have shaped the fine art logistics industry. ICEFAT members from every continent have contributed, demonstrating their commitment to a shared standard of excellence across services rendered to art fairs, insurers, galleries, auction houses and private collectors. The aim of the series has always been to offer valuable insights, and to share expertise in the spirit of collaboration. From complex logistics to emerging issues, the articles have highlighted developments across the ICEFAT network that are making an impact on the fine art logistics industry.
In this, the final blog in the series we take a look back at the key highlights of the past four years, including the launch of the ICEFAT standards, the network’s growing presence on the global stage through involvement in major cultural events like the reopening of Notre Dame, and our combined expertise in navigating masterpieces around the world from navigating Venetian waterways through to delivering Incan treasures by train in the Peruvian Andes. These efforts have helped to amplify awareness of ICEFAT and its members across global media outlets, with editorial features in leading art and trade publications such as Art Daily, Arts & Collections, Fleet Transport, Air Cargo Vision, Forwarder, and the Antiques Trade Gazette.
As we reflect on these achievements, we look forward to continuing to lead the way and contribute to the future of the industry.
Setting the Standard
The launch of the ICEFAT Standards in March 2023 represented a major advancement in the fine art logistics industry, reinforcing ICEFAT’s commitment to upholding the highest levels of professionalism among its global members. As the global art market continues to grow, the demand for expert fine art logistics services remains strong. These standards provide museums, galleries, and private collectors with the confidence that their most valuable treasures will always be in trusted hands.
The standards, which were developed and audited by the renowned consulting firm EY, ensure consistency and quality across the ICEFAT network, offering a comprehensive framework for excellence in fine art logistics.
As Jonathan Schwartz, former Chair of the Steering Committee, who spearheaded the launch of the standards aptly explained in a blog on this very subject: “[Fine Art logistics] requires quick thinking, in-depth artistic and logistic knowledge, and experience, and of course, the utmost care and attention. Ultimately, our members’ technicians and drivers are dealing with our clients’ most prized possessions, and often, the prized possession of a nation.”
ICEFAT featured in the Freight
Business Journal
Mastering Luxury Logistics
ICEFAT members have played a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of priceless cultural and luxury treasures to major global events. Their involvement spans a diverse range of industries, including fine art, fashion, and luxury goods, each requiring expertise, finesse, and the utmost attention to detail.
ICEFAT featured in Arts & Collections
In the luxury sector, ICEFAT members have been entrusted with prestigious projects, including collaborations with renowned fashion brands like Dolce & Gabbana. A notable example is Züst & Bachmeier’s management of a major exhibition at the Palazzo Reale in Milan, showcasing monumental paintings alongside couture fashion designs. Last November’s blog detailed how the Züst & Bachmeier team meticulously planned the transport and installation of these artworks, ensuring everything was set up under the cover of night to avoid disruption to the city, its many residents and visitors.
ICEFAT’s expertise in delivering complex, high-end logistics projects continues to reinforce the critical role specialist art shippers play in the evolving luxury landscape. “It shows the industry is growing up, and that’s exciting,” commented Lapo Sergi, current Chairman of ICEFAT.
ICEFAT members continue to support international art fairs like Frieze, Art Basel, and the Venice Biennale, ensuring seamless logistics for galleries, collectors, and artists. Although there is always a flurry of action on the fair floor, a greater and unseen flurry is co-ordinated prior to and after the fair by the shipping companies that ensure their safe journey.
Logistics in Crisis and Culture
Managing logistics for cultural treasures, especially during emergencies, requires meticulous planning and flawless execution. ICEFAT has consistently demonstrated its expertise in navigating the complexities of unforeseen challenges, including responding to natural disasters to ensure significant artefacts and cultural heritage sites are preserved for future generations.
One of our most recent blogs disclosed how ICEFAT members Bovis Fine Art, Andre Chenue, and TTI rushed to the rescue when a devastating fire broke out at the iconic Notre Dame in 2019. Working hand-in-hand with the French Ministry of Culture to save the cathedral’s masterpieces, they leapt into action, mobilising a dedicated task force to prevent the catastrophic loss of Notre Dame’s masterpieces to smoke, debris, and exposure to the elements. Their fast response and innovative crating systems protected invaluable art from further damage, enabling the transportation of each object to a secure, purpose-built facility for restoration. The collaborative efforts ensured these cultural treasures were preserved for the future, embodying the resilience of the fine art logistics industry.
From disaster responses to global art exhibitions, ICEFAT members are precise, collaborative, and dedicated to preserving art and culture worldwide. To coincide with the latest edition of the Venice Biennale, the blog Beyond the Gondola showcased ICEFAT’s expertise in unique environments. With over 300 artists and 75 countries participating, the event requires the transport of delicate artworks across Venice’s historic canals. ICEFAT members like Atelier 4, SRI Fine Art Services, and Apice managed every step of the logistics process — from safeguarding art in transit to coordinating complex waterway deliveries — ensuring that each piece arrives safely and on time for installation. As Ida Ng, former Chair explained at the time, “The trust that shippers have for each other, forged from nearly half a century of collaboration, means galleries and artists can have peace of mind knowing that their artworks will reach Venice safely, efficiently, and on time.”
ICEFAT featured in the Antiques Trade Gazette
As the current series draws to a close, the blog campaign has reflected ICEFAT’s continued leadership in the fine art logistics industry. With 65% of ICEFAT’s international membership having featured in articles and media opportunities reaching an audience of millions worldwide, ICEFAT has been positioned as a leading voice on critical issues in the industry. As ICEFAT enters a new chapter, we are unwavering in our commitment to shaping the future of fine art logistics and solidifying our place as the unrivalled leaders in the industry.
