The Art Business Encyclopedia
 

by Leonard DuBoff

Allworth Press (1994)

The Art Business Encyclopedia is an enormously useful compendium that clearly will be indispensable to virtually all members of the art world -- collectors, curators, lawyers, accountants, dealers, consultants, writers, and involved laymen. The volume promises to become the standard, defining work in its field.
 
Since being in the art business requires learning the language of that business and properly applying it, The Art Business Encyclopedia, written by attorney-at-law, Leonard DuBoff, is a resource for all members of the art community: artists, collectors, dealers, galleries, museums and their attorney.  The Encyclopedia is a comprehensive collection and explanation of the most common terms which are crucial in the art business world. While all of the terminology is in common use, many of the entries are not defined or discussed in any other art reference work.
Antiques and the Arts Weekly, August 12, 1994

Written by an attorney, this resource for "all members of the art community" is a comprehensive collection and explanation of the most commonly-used terms in the business. Many entries are not defined or discussed in any other art reference work, according to the publisher, taking the reader "beyond what was learned in art class" into the real world of art as business.
Art and Design News, November/December, 1994

The Art Business Encyclopedia, compiled by notable art lawyer DuBoff contains a wealth of terminology, phrases, and concepts relating to the business of art. Each entry provides the user with excellent information, which is cross-referenced to other appropriate terms. Various appendices outline, by state, legal statutes pertaining to print and multiple disclosure, artist-dealer consignment, art dealers/sellers, art works, and other special provisions. Also included is a listing of volunteer lawyer organizations. The only negative comment concerns the lack of complete legal citation --either public law, Statute-At-Large, or U.S. code numbers - within the test of entries relating to acts passed by Congress.
Library Journal, September 1, 1994

This is a compendium of approximately 350 art-related terms used in business and law. For those just beginning to market or sell their own works, those who want to establish a small art business, or those who feel they need a basic understanding of the marketing aspects of selling/dealing/collecting, this survival guide will be useful. It is not meant for those who have an extensive knowledge of business and legal issues related to the art world. It includes not just legal and business definitions but also advice and counsel for the artist, gallery owner, dealer, art lawyer, and interested layperson. Terminology, in brief simple statements, ranges from accountant, accounting, and antiquities to Berne Copyright Convention, exhibitions and shows, fire prevention hazards, loans of artwork, and zoning. There are seven brief appendices, including one on print and multiples disclosure laws; a few organizations, such as the American Association of Museums, National Artists Equity, and the National Endowment for the Arts, with addresses and telephone numbers; artist dealer consignment statutes by state; one on art sellers and art works, as well as special provisions covered by the statutes; a brief bibliography (34 books) of other references; a sample form; and volunteer lawyer organizations. An index to entries is also included.
American Reference Book Annual, 1995

The Art Business Encyclopedia tackles the business end of things, compiling details on tax deductions and allowable business expenses, financial statements and management, local art laws, and bookkeeping methods. A fine approach for artists and curators alike.
The Bookwatch, September, 1994