BASA chief joins Artinsure

Nicola Danby, long-term CEO of Business & Arts South Africa (BASA) joins the Artinsure board in July, simultaneously resigning her position at BASA after 12 years at that helm.

In making the announcement, Artinsure MD, Gordon Massie, said “To have a person of such extraordinary knowledge and high credibility in the art and business arena join the Artinsure board is a marvellous advantage for the art world in general as her expertise will continue to benefit collectors in significant ways.”

Artinsure, in partnership with Hollard Insurance, is South Africa’s only specialist art and antiques and memorabilia insurer. “Recent record sales in the South African and international art world confirm that art continues on its impressive rise as an investment class for individuals as well as corporates. Nicola has spent the past dozen years as chief executive of BASA. Her contribution as a board member of Artinsure will be invaluable and will include helping me to roll out our specialist services to the corporate sector that she knows so well.

“With her as a member of our team, Artinsure will be in an even stronger position as a specialist insurer to respond to the escalating needs of South African collectors who deserve the same types of benefits available to the global art world.

“Art continues to be a sought after investment opportunity with global records continually tumbling at the high end of the market. A couple of weeks ago Christie’s generated the largest ever sales volume posted at a European auction of $284 million. Respected art market observers conclude that art investments perform better when stock markets are under performing.”