ABOUT US

Austin + Checker is a London-based art advisory founded by Pia Austin-Little and Polly Checker. We offer discreet, collaborative and independent guidance, helping collectors at every stage build unique and lasting collections with confidence and curiosity.

With over three decades combined experience in leading London galleries, we specialise in the primary and secondary markets, focusing on emerging and mid-career contemporary artists alongside key works of modern art. Our tailored advice blends creativity, connoisseurship, and rigorous market insight.

Working with private and corporate collectors, architects, and interior designers, we provide a truly bespoke service and privileged access to the art world — from studio visits and gallery tours to museum previews and exclusive events.

  • Pia worked at Haunch of Venison before joining Vigo Gallery, where she spent over a decade. During her time there, including serving as a Director, she worked closely with emerging and established artists, led all aspects of gallery operations, and oversaw significant museum acquisitions. She delivered a diverse programme of exhibitions across gallery spaces and high-profile public and historic venues, and represented the gallery at leading international art fairs.

  • Polly spent a decade at Offer Waterman, London, where she oversaw academic and art market research and led the gallery’s exhibition programming, curating museum quality exhibitions by internationally established artists including Frank Auerbach, David Hockney, William Turnbull and Robert Rauschenberg. More recently she led and grew the global art fair programme for leading art book publisher TASCHEN, building on an already established network of Fairs, galleries and dealers.

HOW WE WORK

  • We’ll begin with an introductory meeting—ideally at the project site—to get a feel for the space and understand its unique characteristics.
    During this session, we’ll discuss the project scope, your aesthetic preferences, and any collecting goals you may have, establishing a clear brief to guide the next steps. We’ll also review timelines, budgets, and fees to ensure full transparency from the outset.

  • Based on our discussion, we’ll prepare an initial selection of artworks that align with the agreed brief and reflect your vision for the space.

  • In response to your feedback, we’ll present a refined selection of site-specific and available artworks. This presentation will include pricing details, artist profiles, and relevant market insights to support informed decisions.

  • We will liaise with galleries and artists to acquire the chosen artworks on your behalf, coordinating shipping, framing, and installation through our trusted partners to ensure a seamless experience.

  • You’ll receive a final document detailing all artworks sourced, along with relevant information for your records.