Liz explained why she felt this made a difference. “Often for this type of collection – one that has come down through generations of the same family or has been carefully curated over a lifetime by one person, offers perfect provenance for the discerning collector. For the vendor it’s not all about making some money. In both cases, the vendors were keen to see their treasured items find new, appreciative homes.
“By creating stories around their collections in a variety of different media, we’ve generated interest from genuine fans – for example North Devon residents keen to have a piece of Fishley pottery as a keepsake. We’re as pleased as the vendor when this type of auction lot stays local.”
As well as running 10 successful specialist sales over the year, 2024 has seen Chilcotts becoming more involved in promoting a future in auctioneering to the younger generation.
Liz said: “One of the problems facing our sector is a lack of young people considering the auction world as a potential career path; often, auctions are being associated with older people and not seen as relevant. We’ve been working to tackle the misconception head on, taking part in Honiton Community College’s first careers day, and welcoming a number of work experience students, two from local schools and one recent graduate.”
In addition, The Society of Fine Arts and Antiques (SOFAA), which Chilcotts is a member of, has recently linked up with the Worshipful Company of Art Scholars to design trailblazing experience days for secondary schools. In early 2025, Liz, who is on the SOFAA committee, will be approaching local schools to gauge interest.
“Career opportunities in the arts and auction sectors are not always covered in depth in state schools, and we hope to address this. Students will be able to meet specialists from different departments and find out not just what’s involved and also what an interesting area this is to work in. Perhaps this type of activity will help attract future people to the sector.”
Also looking to the future, but this time in terms of the environment, the coming year promises to be equally significant with major improvements to Chilcotts’ green credentials with the installation of solar panels, storage batteries plus EV charging points for customers. The cost of the solar panels is being supported with a grant from EDDC’s East Devon Carbon Action Programme (CAP).
“This is something we’ve been thinking about for a while so we’re delighted to be able to move ahead. 2025 looks like being a really positive year for us in so many ways."
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all at Chilcotts (pictured on our Christmas outing to Taunton Racecourse!)
