We were lucky to catch up with Jennifer Salvetti-kulla recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jennifer, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I believe my work ethic comes from a combination of personal inspiration and the incredible support system I’ve had throughout my life. My parents and my husband have always been my biggest advocates, encouraging me to pursue my education and build my business with confidence. Watching their dedication and seeing how they value hard work has been a lifelong motivator for me.
Additionally, my mentor, Kathryn Minard, has shown me the importance of integrity, precision, and continuous learning in professional life. Her guidance has helped me stay focused and dedicated to my craft.
Studying and working in the art industry has also been a dream come true for me. My passion for the arts drives me to approach each project with care and diligence. I see every piece I appraise as a unique story waiting to be told, and I feel honored to play a role in preserving and valuing these stories for my clients. That sense of responsibility and love for what I do keeps me striving for excellence.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m the proud owner of JSK Fine Art Appraisals, a San Diego-based business dedicated to providing professional, USPAP-compliant appraisals for fine art. I work with individuals, attorneys, estate liquidators, insurance companies, and art professionals to help them understand the value of their collections for insurance, donation, estate planning, and resale purposes.
My journey in the art industry began with a deep love for art history, which I pursued academically with a Bachelor’s in Art History and a Master’s in Museum Studies. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills through specialized training with the International Society of Appraisers and by working as the gallery manager at Art & Frames since 2018. In 2020, I decided to establish my own business, combining my education, experience, and passion for helping others with their art needs.
What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to uncover the stories behind each piece I appraise. Whether it’s assisting a client in understanding the value of a treasured family heirloom or helping them navigate the sale of a significant collection, I find it deeply fulfilling to connect people with the meaning and value of their art. I also love that my work allows me to collaborate with auction houses, galleries, and other professionals in the art world.
At JSK Fine Art Appraisals, it’s not just about the numbers – it’s about the stories and the people behind the art. For anyone interested in fine art appraisals or looking to understand more about their collections, I’d love to connect.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I think the most impactful qualities and skills in my journey have been curiosity, adaptability, and a dedication to lifelong learning.
Curiosity has always been a driving force for me. The art world is so vast and rich, and there’s always more to discover. Whether it’s unraveling the story behind a piece of art or staying on top of changing market trends, curiosity keeps things exciting and meaningful. For anyone just starting out, I’d say to embrace that natural desire to ask questions and explore—it’s such a valuable tool for growth.
Adaptability has been just as important. The art industry, like so many others, is constantly evolving. Learning to adjust, whether it’s incorporating new appraisal methods or understanding shifts in the market, has helped me navigate the ups and downs. Being flexible and open to change can lead to unexpected opportunities, so it’s something I’d encourage others to lean into.
Finally, I can’t overstate how important a dedication to learning has been. From specialized courses to conferences and mentors, investing in my education has been key to my growth. For those early in their journey, finding opportunities to learn and seeking out guidance from mentors can make such a difference. It’s all about being open to gaining new skills and perspectives.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the journey itself is the most important part. Embrace the process, stay passionate, and don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes—it’s all part of building something meaningful.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who values the stories and meaning behind their art, whether they’re a passionate collector, an estate executor handling cherished family pieces, or a professional needing specialized assistance, like an attorney or an insurance adjuster.
What truly makes a client ideal, though, is their openness to collaboration and trust in the appraisal process. I enjoy working with individuals who are curious and willing to engage in conversations about their collection, eager to understand not just the monetary value but also the historical and cultural significance of their pieces.
A great client is also one who appreciates clear communication and respects the professional standards that guide my work. Whether they’re looking for an insurance appraisal, help navigating a charitable donation, or advice on selling a piece, I value clients who see the appraisal process as a partnership built on transparency and professionalism.
Ultimately, my favorite clients are those who care deeply about their art and are excited to learn more about it. That shared passion makes the entire process so much more rewarding for both of us.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jskfineartappraisals.com/
Image Credits
Photographer: Anita Friedrich @ani_portrait
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
