Our blog
Throughout our content, we dive into artist stories, art trends, how to value your own items like art, furniture, jewelry, and more, as well as unique stories about items featured in our monthly auctions.
Enjoy topics related to the latest trends, home decor tips & valuable information for art enthusiasts. We also have some free guides that can be downloaded below.
The Latest
Every item that passes across our auction block possesses an intriguing history and resonance. As we celebrate Pride Month, we are excited to highlight one LGBTQ+ artist in particular: Andy Warhol. We have had many opportunities to auction his works.
Gray’s began as a vision around a kitchen table in New York over twenty years ago. Discover the story of Gray's Auctioneers from its humble beginnings to international auction house in this Ideastream feature.
The ocean’s rising, the summers are hotter, and the winters are colder. Thanks to our impact on the environment, times and temps are changing as quickly as interior design trends. So how can you be smarter about your interior design decisions?
From Western Gothic to Jellyfish Aesthetic, these are the 2024 interior design trends breaking Pinterest! How do we know? Well, Pinterest told us. With 80% accuracy, these aren’t just fads but future certainties. We compiled all of the interior design trends you NEED to know about in 2024. Grab a coffee and a cowboy hat; it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!
Inheriting an estate often comes with a blend of emotional and financial complexities. As you sift through memories and assets, a critical decision looms: what to do with the inherited items. In this guide, we delve into the differences between appraisals and valuations, providing insights to help you make informed decisions for your inherited estate.
Let’s face it—no one wants to think about what happens after the loss of a family member or a divorce, least of all how to liquidate their beloved belongings. The process of evaluating and cataloguing your loved one’s possessions can be daunting and emotional, especially if you aren’t familiar with the types of items they left behind. Estate auctions can be a great option for selling your loved one’s assets, but what is an estate auction, and how do you know if it’s right for you? Here is everything you should know.
Not to alarm you… but your attic could be keeping secrets from you. From vintage books to antique music boxes, that neglected spare room at the top of the stairs could be hiding a treasure trove of valuables. But how do you tell the difference between high-value curio and mediocre clutter? Cue the holiday vibes and airport mimosas; here’s how to spot valuable antiques (plus the most valuable collectibles to look for during your search).
Find your interior design identity and transform your space into a captivating reflection of your personality with our comprehensive guide and curated inspiration. Unleash your creativity and create a home that truly feels like you.
Find out about the environmental impact of fast furniture and the cons of mass-produced, low-quality furniture. Learn why sustainable alternatives are better for your wallet and the planet.
Our team rounded up some of this year’s hottest trends, plus some inspiration handpicked from our archives to get you in the creative spirit. Channel your inner Kelly Wearstler – here are 5 interior design trends to try in 2023 >
February is Black History Month – a time to honor and celebrate the impact of Black experiences and achievements in our community. Every week in February, we will add two local Black artists to this blog, whose contributions to the Cleveland art scene deserve to be recognized year-round. Take a peek >
Ever thought about collecting art?
Many people view art as a personal passion or just a hobby. But did you know that sometimes art can also be an incredible investment? Your artwork can be a long-term investment that you get to enjoy in the meantime. But before you get carried away, investing in art is a potential minefield.
We’ve compiled some of the main pros and cons of investing in art. We also share the latest trends in the field.
When it comes to art, women have historically been woefully underrepresented. In honor of National Women’s Small Business Month, and as women entrepreneurs ourselves, we want to do something about it.
From our homegrown Cleveland heroes to artists selling their dirty laundry, we’ve compiled seven artistic women entrepreneurs that you need to know.
Ethics are the principles that shape our moral compass and dictate our attitude, mindset, and consequent behaviors.
Most people want to make ethical decisions but sometimes inadvertently make a decision that is less than ethical through a lack of self-awareness. So how do we avoid falling into this trap?
The greatest artists bury hidden treasures within their masterpieces, delighting onlookers for centuries after they’ve passed. Check out these four unbelievable, jaw-dropping hidden details buried within famous paintings that you’ve never seen before!
As industry progressed at breakneck speed, society was rocked, then rocked again by scandal in the 20th Century. Boy did artists relish in controversy, question authority, defy convention, and shatter deeply held beliefs. We want to honor some of the pioneers, provocateurs, and bold thinkers with five of the biggest art scandals of the 20th Century!
Many consider the modern art movement one of the key catalysts to progress that emerged from the mid-nineteenth century until the 1970s. Pioneering artists such as Cezanne, Picasso, Monet and Dali dominated the era and changed how we perceive and interpret art forever. So, how did it come about?
Building an art collection that you love requires enthusiasm, patience, and creativity. Many people collect art to decorate their homes, show their appreciation of a particular era or artist, sometimes even to preserve history... Most of all, people use art as a powerful way to express their personalities.
So how do you start an art collection? How do you define your personality? What art reflects who you are, deep down inside?
Does the artist make the painting or the painting the artist? Auction houses have been home to scenes of breathtaking displays of wealth, influence, drama, and mystery.
The world of art can seem intimidating, and many feel like they’re at school again - tip-toeing their way through previously unnavigated waters. However, the saying is always true - knowledge is power.
Free Guides
The Modern Art Revolution
A Complete Guide to The Causes, Key Movements, Notable Artists, and More
In this guide, we cover everything from what came before the modern art era, the causes of the revolution, what modern art is characterized as, and notable artists of the period.
Valuing your treasures at home
Value Your Art, Jewelry & Furniture (Then Sell For $$$)
In this guide, we help you determine the value of your treasures. If you have art, jewelry or furniture collecting dust, now may be the time to figure out what it’s worth!
Dos & Don’ts of Budget Home Decor
We want to share a few money-saving secrets as you decorate your new home with authentic items.
At Home-Valuations Guide
Determine the value of your treasures. If you have art, jewelry or furniture collecting dust, now may be the time to figure out what it’s worth!
Vintage Decor Trends in 2021
Everything you need to go about “going vintage”, this year’s trends, and predictions for what’s hot & what’s not. Get the guide below.
Top 10 Art Buying Mistakes
If you are in the market for art, don’t make these costly mistakes. Here we share our expert insights to help you avoid art-buying mistakes.
The Latest on Home Decor
You’ve heard of the thrill of the chase; why not the thrill of the chase lounge? Auctions offer unique pieces rich in history and the chance to get high-quality items at competitive prices. At Gray’s Auctioneers, every auction is a chance to discover treasures that transform your space. Here are our seven most exciting reasons to buy furniture at auction.
Are you drowning in a sea of stuff? Feeling overwhelmed by a house full of hidden treasures and items collecting dust? Downsizing can be a delightful journey of discovery and renewal. At Gray's, we're here to help you transform your treasure trove into tidy spaces and a bit of extra cash. Let’s dive in and explore the art of downsizing.
Spring has sprung! The birds are singing, the rabbits are multiplying (watch out for your carrots!), the sun is shining, and… achoo! There's also a lot of pollen in the air.
The ocean’s rising, the summers are hotter, and the winters are colder. Thanks to our impact on the environment, times and temps are changing as quickly as interior design trends. So how can you be smarter about your interior design decisions?
“Don’t believe the hype,” they’ll tell you. Everyone these days is about being alternative… And what better way to be an alternative than jumping back into styles people abandoned two decades ago?
From Western Gothic to Jellyfish Aesthetic, these are the 2024 interior design trends breaking Pinterest! How do we know? Well, Pinterest told us. With 80% accuracy, these aren’t just fads but future certainties. We compiled all of the interior design trends you NEED to know about in 2024. Grab a coffee and a cowboy hat; it’s gonna be a bumpy ride!
All About Auctions
This beginner’s guide offers expert tips and tricks gathered from years of experience, helping you navigate the bidding process with confidence. With a bit of strategy and luck, you could be the next winning bidder at one of our upcoming auctions!
As an estate attorney, you frequently encounter the complexities that arise after a client’s passing—balancing legal requirements, family dynamics, and the need for efficient asset liquidation. Navigating these challenges requires reliable partners who can support you in delivering the best outcomes for your clients. This is where Gray’s Auctioneers comes in.
Learn the truth about auction fees and commissions. Get a clear breakdown of what you can expect to pay, so there are no surprises when selling your item.
Auctions – one of the most exciting (and intimidating) ways to buy something you love at a fair market value. Although it can seem complex, the process is quite simple. The key to being a knowledgeable buyer is knowing how to bid, how to do your research, and understanding the role that auction houses play.
Looking to buy art at auction but feeling overwhelmed by art terminology? Fear not! Our super simple guide is designed just for you. Discover 25 essential art terms to enhance your art knowledge without needing an art history degree.
So you’re thinking about putting an item up for auction but want to know how much you’ll actually get for it. Here’s everything you need to know about consigning with us to get started.
How to Value your own items
Let’s face it—no one wants to think about what happens after the loss of a family member or a divorce, least of all how to liquidate their beloved belongings. The process of evaluating and cataloguing your loved one’s possessions can be daunting and emotional, especially if you aren’t familiar with the types of items they left behind. Estate auctions can be a great option for selling your loved one’s assets, but what is an estate auction, and how do you know if it’s right for you? Here is everything you should know.
Not to alarm you… but your attic could be keeping secrets from you. From vintage books to antique music boxes, that neglected spare room at the top of the stairs could be hiding a treasure trove of valuables. But how do you tell the difference between high-value curio and mediocre clutter? Cue the holiday vibes and airport mimosas; here’s how to spot valuable antiques (plus the most valuable collectibles to look for during your search).
Spring has sprung, which can only mean one thing - it’s time for Spring cleaning. Don't groan just yet! Some of the items you think are trash could actually be buried treasure. There is no need to stress about research; we've done the hard work for you. Here are ten everyday items found at home that could be worth a lot of money.
It can be hard to know where to begin after inheriting an estate. Aside from the emotional weight and stress, you have to also think about what to do with any items you’ve inherited. If you find yourself in possession of paintings, furniture, antiques, or jewelry, here is your five-step action plan to figure out where to go from here.
If you are trying to determine if your diamond is real, here we have outlined nine different tests you can try at home to determine if your diamond is real or an intruder, such as a white sapphire, moissanite, cubic zirconia, or garnet.
Are you curious about the value of your jewelry? Maybe you inherited a host of necklaces, rings, or bracelets that you’ve always dismissed as of no value, but now you’re giving it a second thought.
Are you a treasure hunter? Do you love searching for unique pieces to complement your home? Now is the time to take a closer look because there is a good chance that some of your pieces could be worth over $1,000!
Perhaps that old painting hanging on the wall has some real value. Here are 9 key factors real experts use to find the value of your artwork. You may be sitting on a gold mine!
Here are 6 items sitting in your home that may be worth something. While rummaging through your house and cleaning, hidden amongst the dust bunnies and old boxes, there may be some items that may be more than just memories. Your items might be worth more than you think!
Is it time to downsize? Here are three ways to figure out if now is the right time to do so! We’ve put together a list to help you ask yourself the right questions to figure out if there’s no time like the present for a downsize.
This is the first part to a series of content that we are publishing, dedicated to helping people find the true value of their treasured possessions. Our aim is to give you the information needed to help you figure out if you can appraise your own jewelry, or if you should submit it for an auction valuation.
At Gray’s Auctioneers, we decided to introduce this piece of content to help people understand the main things to look for before requesting an item for valuation, and also a few pointers to help you find the value of your item on your own.
Previous Auction Features
One of the many incredible artists featured in this month’s auction is Clyde J Singer, an Ohio native known for his landscape paintings, etchings, and murals. Born in Malvern, Ohio, in 1908, he spent almost his entire life in his state’s rural hills, a defining influence on his work.
Born and raised in New York City, Helen Beling was a prolific sculptor on the art scene who studied at the National Academy of Design and the Art Students League of New York.
Born in Borownica, Poland in 1928, Julian Stanczak lived a tumultuous childhood after the rise of Nazi Germany in WWII.
Our upcoming auction on November 18th features 160 lots of vintage arcade games, antique trains and fairground amusements as well as locally relevant historical artifacts. Take a look at the steam-powered vehicles, fortune-telling machines, and much more.
What do vintage arcade games, antique steam powered vehicles and a 19th century apothecary store have in common? They are just some of the items being offered to the public at Gray’s Auctioneers on November 20 from Cedar Point’s Town Hall Museum.
Our upcoming October 2nd auction features over 438 lots including dazzling diamond rings, a Cinderella carriage for your little princess, and several wonderful pieces of fine art.