The Art of Protection – Preserving and Managing Collections for the Future.
Every artwork has a story—but how do you ensure that story lasts for generations? This lively discussion brings together experts to explore the art of protecting and managing collections, from practical conservation tips to navigating risks. With real-world examples from well-known New Zealand artists, we’ll share insider advice on keeping your pieces safe, whether they’re on display at home or part of a larger collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, join us for an insightful and interactive conversation on how to care for the art you love.
Ben Ashley, Aon Principal Art & Collections Valuer | Moderator
Maddie Gifford | Speaker
Giulia Scott | Speaker
Ben Ashley is Aon New Zealand’s Principal Art & Collections Valuer. With over a decade of experience across New Zealand, Australia, and the USA, Ben is a trusted advisor in the field of valuations and risk advice. He has led large-scale assessments for major public collections, including Te Papa Tongarewa, the Alexander Turnbull Library, and the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, and brings specialist expertise in valuing both tangible and intangible heritage assets. Ben also acts internationally as an art insurance claims consultant, offering strategic insights on complex claims involving fine art and cultural property. His deep knowledge of market trends, risk, and collection care allows him to provide clients with clear, practical advice on protecting their collections now and in the future.
Maddie Gifford is the Art Collection Advisor for Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland Art Collection. She has worked across the arts as a collection manager, curator and facilitator for nine years, previously holding positions at Corban Estate Arts Centre, Tim Melville Gallery and the McCahon House Trust. She holds a Master of Arts (Art History) and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Management (Digital Marketing) (Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland). Her interest areas include textile art, historic and contemporary painting, and connecting art with younger and surprising audiences in Aotearoa.
Giulia Scott has been the Senior Conservator at Studio Izzo for over a decade. In 2015, Giulia moved to Florence to study the 16th century art technique of Scagliola, studying under Cinzia Lunghetti, a world-leading expert in the design and creation of stone artefacts. This experience furthered Giulia’s interest in the conservation of heritage in art and buildings and in 2021, she completed her degree in Art Conservation at IAR Palazzo Spinelli with a thesis on the conservation of modern New Zealand art. Since 2020, Giulia has been working full-time with the studio.
Let’s Talk Art presented by Aon, brings together 30 artists, curators, designers, and collectors for nine compelling talks over three days.
Entry to Let’s Talk Art is on a first come, first serve basis. There is no RSVP.
A valid ticket to the Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 is required for entry to this talk.