



Fine Art Appraisals in Fargo-Moorhead & the Upper Midwest
You have artwork. You need clear answers.
Whether you've inherited art, need an insurance appraisal, are planning a charitable donation, or want to organize a collection, you deserve objective, well-documented guidance from a qualified fine art appraiser.
Bachmeier Fine Art Appraisal, Collections & Consulting provides ISA and USPAP-compliant appraisals, collection, and consultation services, for individuals, estates, attorneys, museums, foundations, and institutions throughout the Northern Plains.
Most clients start with a brief, no-obligation conversation.North Dakota's only ISA - Credentialed Fine Art Appraiser
Clear, qualified, trusted answers about your artwork
SERVICES
Fine Art Appraisal
Insurance Appraisals
Valuations for insurance coverage, policy updates, and risk management. Reports establish replacement value to ensure appropriate protection of artworks and collections.Estate and Probate Appraisals
Appraisals prepared for estate planning, tax reporting, and equitable distribution. Reports are developed to meet IRS requirements and support attorneys, executors, and fiduciaries.Donation Appraisals
Qualified appraisals for charitable contributions, supporting tax deduction documentation in accordance with IRS regulations.Fair Market Value Appraisals
Objective valuations for resale, gifting, or financial planning, reflecting current market conditions and comparable sales data.Consulting Services
Collections Management & Advisory
Guidance for private and institutional collections, including acquisition strategy, inventory development, and long-term stewardship planning.Deaccession & Disposition Consulting
Advisory services for institutions or individuals navigating ethical and practical considerations related to deaccessioning, resale, or transfer of artworks.Artist Estate & Legacy Planning
Consultation for artists and families seeking to document, organize, and plan for the long-term care and valuation of artwork and archives.FAQs
What is an appraisal?
A fine art appraisal is a professional opinion of value prepared for a specific purpose, such as insurance coverage, estate settlement, charitable donation, or financial planning. Appraisals are developed through research, market analysis, and documentation in accordance with professional appraisal standards.
What to expect?
- Initial consultation
- Determine purpose and scope of appraisal
- Review available documentation and images
- Inspection of artwork or collection (generally in-person, occassionally virtual inspection is appropriate depending on scope of work and purpose)
- Research and market analysis
- Delivery of written appraisal report
How much does an appraisal cost?
Appraisal fees are based on the scope and purpose of the assignment, including the number of items, the type of report required, and the amount of research involved. To ensure objectivity and compliance with USPAP ethics standards, fees are never based on a percentage of an artwork's value. After a brief initial conversation, you'll receive a clear estimate before any work begins. Initial consultations are always free.
Why do clients typically contact us?
- Inherited artwork and collections
- Insurance coverage and policy updates
- Estate settlement and probate
- Charitable donations
- Collection management and planning
- Artist estate and legacy planning
Who do we serve?
Who We Serve
- Private collectors
- Individuals who have inherited artwork
- Attorneys and fiduciaries
- Estate executors
- Museums and cultural institutions
- Universities and schools
- Foundations and nonprofit organizations
- Artists and artist estates
What is your Service Area?
Services are available throughout the Upper Midwest and nationally. Travel and remote consultation options are available depending on project scope.
Do I need an appraisal for Insurance?
If you own valuable artwork, most insurers require a professional appraisal to provide proper coverage, and to ensure you're paid fairly in the event of loss, theft, or damage. A qualified appraisal documents each piece's replacement value, descriptions, and supporting research, giving both you and your insurer confidence that your collection is protected at the right level. Insurance values should also be reviewed periodically, as the art market changes over time.
About

Brad Bachmeier is an ISA-member appraiser and nationally recognized art professional with more than 30 years of experience across higher education, arts administration, and studio practice. He holds an MFA in ceramics and has received more than 60 grants and awards.
Drawing on decades of experience as both a practicing artist and arts leader, Bachmeier brings informed judgment, connoisseurship, and professional rigor to appraisal assignments for collectors, institutions, and estate clients.
Bachmeier has held leadership roles in major arts organizations, including President of the Rourke Art Museum Board, President of The Arts Partnership, and Vice Chair of the North Dakota Council on the Arts. He has also served as Chair of the School of Art at Minnesota State University Moorhead and has juried regional and national exhibitions, contributing to his deep knowledge of artistic quality, market context, and professional standards.
His work is held in collections across all 50 states and internationally, including the U.S. National Archives, Microsoft Headquarters, numerous National Park collections, and the ND Governor’s Residence.
Based in Fargo-Moorhead, Bachmeier Fine Art Appraisal, Collections & Consulting serves clients throughout North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and the Upper Midwest.
Client Inquiry/Contact
Please contact Brad by phone at 701-893-8356, through email at: info@bachmeierfineartappraisal.com or use the form below to begin a conversation about your project or request a quote. Initial consultations are provided at no cost, and will determine scope, purpose, and required documentation. Responses are typically provided within 24–48 hours.
**Bachmeier Fine Art Appraisal, Collections & Consulting does not provide legal, tax, or financial advice. Clients should consult appropriate professionals regarding legal, tax, and financial matters.



