Althea Viafora-Kress
Althea Viafora-Kress is a New York based art advisor and commentator on contemporary culture, producing and hosting, The Collectors’ Forum original programming for the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) sponsored WPSI.org Art Radio. She also hosts web-based shows for Basel, Switzerland’s Vernissage TV and frequently lectures and guides tours, such as for Columbia University, on the contemporary art world. Althea has organized VIP collectors' tours to galleries and museums for the life-style management firm Quinessentially and was one of three international consultants for Art Dubia 2008 to liaise and host VIP’s and Corporate Sponsors for the duration of the art fair.
Ms. Viafora-Kress’ art advising experience began as a curator and gallerist. Funded by Ahmed Ertegun founder of Atlantic Records, Peter Jay Sharp prior owner of the Carlyle Hotel, Dan Lufkin of Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette (now Credit Suisse First Boston) Leon Levy of Odyssey Partners, Viafora Gallery specialized in the discovery of outstanding young artists, including first solo and break-through exhibitions of Matthew Barney and Elizabeth Peyton, which earned The New York Times’ art critic Roberta Smith’s attention.
Passionate about old and new art, she holds a BA with honors in Art History from Columbia University.
As a consultant, Ms. Viafora-Kress offers a wide range of art advisory services and works with people new to the art scene as well as veteran collectors. Unlike dealers, Viafora-Kress has no vested interests and is independent therefore acts purely for the interest of the client.
Ms. Viafora-Kress’s curatorial background along with verbal skill serve her clients to help define individual and corporate values. Her experience assures integrity in helping in what to purchase and how to invest in the future.