Julia Bell

Spear’s Review

Parapluie founder Julia Bell has over two decades of experience in the world of Contemporary art.

With a strong presence in London and the north of England — but working with clients globally, including in the US and the Caribbean — Bell’s firm provides expert guidance in the sourcing and purchasing of Modern, Post-War and Contemporary art, offering advice to clients on how to buy art with greater confidence.

Bell sources art from all over the world for individuals and companies, and past clients have included collectors, architects, designers and companies. Formerly head of partnerships at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Bell’s experience also extends to valuation and appraisal services. She is a USPAP-qualified appraiser and a member of the International Society of Appraisers. 

She also offers collection management services for new and seasoned collectors alike in addition to a holistic consultancy for artist foundations.

Adviser Profile

Founder and Principal Partner of Parapluie, Julia Bell has over 25 years’ experience within the international art world as an art advisor, appraiser, curator, lecturer, consultant and art market commentator. She has extensive knowledge of modern, post-war and contemporary art markets, from emerging to blue-chip artists. Her extensive international connections span museums, galleries, artist foundations, art fairs, auction houses and collectors, which she utilises to ensure clients get the best access to international art market contacts. Prior to founding Parapluie in 2017, Julia had a twenty-year career within public institutions in the UK, building and managing modern and contemporary fine and decorative art collections of both regional and national importance and developing national and international gallery partnerships. She also worked as an independent curator, public art commissioner and strategic advisor to museums and galleries. Julia notes, ‘We are a client-focused, high-touch business. We act with integrity, offering independent, impartial advice acting solely in the client’s best interests.’ 

Clientele include UHNW and HNW individuals looking to develop their interest and passion in art or those looking to diversify their investments into art and also corporate entities. Parapluie offers clients guidance on Acquisitions; Dispersal; Commissions; Shipping; Transportation; Appraisal and valuation; Collection management; and Foundation development. Julia is an accredited member of the International Society of Appraisers and an USPAP-compliant appraiser. Parapluie also provides consultancy and independent appraisals to the professional services industries. Julia is a member of the Institute of Art and Law and UK registrars Group.