About
Lee Ann Whatley
Background
Lee Ann Whatley has extensive Fine Art Appraisal education through the International Society of Appraisers since 2013. Based in Fredericksburg, Texas, she brings a comprehensive, scholarly approach to every appraisal, backed by extensive field experience across galleries, museums, and private collections.
Her career began in the gallery world in Aspen, Colorado, where she worked in fine art photography sales, gallery operations, and archival collections. This early immersion established a strong foundation in both the commercial and historical dimensions of art—an approach that continues to define her work today.
Lee Ann holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Texas State University, with specialized study in the history of photography, Pre-Columbian art, modern and contemporary art, and Mexican cultural anthropology. She has completed rigorous USPAP-compliant training and continuing education, ensuring that every appraisal meets the highest professional and ethical standards.
Founder of Appretiare
As the founder of Appretiare LLC, Lee Ann provides fine art appraisals, curatorial services, and art consulting for private collectors, institutions, and estates. Her work spans insurance appraisals, charitable donation valuations, estate planning, and collection management. She is particularly recognized for her ability to translate complex market data into clear, defensible valuations.
In addition to her appraisal practice, Lee Ann has served as a gallery owner and director, museum program assistant, docent, and master-level framer. This multidisciplinary background gives her a rare, holistic understanding of artworks—from their physical construction and preservation to their cultural and market significance.
Her curatorial work includes exhibitions for the Museum of Western Art and the Pioneer Museum, where she has developed historically grounded exhibitions that connect regional narratives with broader art historical contexts. She has also contributed to collections development initiatives and served on advisory committees supporting museum acquisitions and preservation.
Exhibitions
Texas Tech University, International Cultural Affairs, Juror, High & Dry Photography Competition
Guest Curator for the Pioneer Museum, Fredericksburg, TX, “Lee Ethel’s Fredericksburg: The Artist’s Paintings and Archival Sources,” Pioneer Museum, Fredericksburg, Texas, May 7 – September 15, 2021 Funded by Humanities Texas and the Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance.
Pioneer Museum, Guest Curator, The Art of Lee Ethel, for the 66th Annual Home Tour
Guest Curator for the Museum of Western Art, Kerrville, TX “Glory & Grime; The Art of Susanne Vincent” January 13th – March 2,2024.
Fine Art Specializations (but not limited to)
- Western Art
- Early Texas Art
- Native American Art & Textiles
- Audubon prints
- Illuminated Manuscripts
- Old World Maps
- Folk Art
- Contemporary and Modern Art
- Monumental Sculptures
- Prints and Multiples (including photography)
Professional Involvement & Industry Leadership
Lee Ann is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Texas Art Collectors Organization, and the Center for the Advancement and Study of Early Texas Art. She has also served as a juror for photography competitions and participated in appraisal education and professional development initiatives.
Notable Appraisal Work & Collection Expertise
Lee Ann’s appraisal portfolio includes significant assignments for museums, universities, and private collectors, including collections of rare illustrated works, antique maps, illuminated manuscripts, and large-scale sculpture. These projects reflect her expertise in handling complex, high-value, and historically important works of art.
Commitment to Integrity & Professional Standards
At the core of Lee Ann’s practice is a commitment to accuracy, integrity, and education. Whether working with seasoned collectors or first-time clients, she approaches each project with the same level of rigor and care—ensuring that every client receives a well-supported, credible, and meaningful valuation.
List of expertise
2025
Owner and Principal Appraiser
Appretiare LLC., Fredericksburg, TX
Fine Art Appraisals and curatorial services, art consulting
2018 – 2024
Owner
Appretiare, Fredericksburg, TX
Appraisals and curatorial services, Museum Archival Fine Art framer
2015-2017
Gallery Owner and Director
Eleven Squared Arts Venue, Fredericksburg, TX
August 2013- 2017
Established Flying Frame Studio LLC Fredericksburg, TX
Framing, art appraising, photographic fine arts
January 2006- 2013
Fine Art Framer
DBA Flying Frame Studio, Fredericksburg, TX
January 2013- 2015
Docent & Program Assistant at large
Museum of Art at MSU, Wichita Falls, TX
2004 – Jan. 2006
Director
Photography Is Art Gallery, Fredericksburg, TX
2002-2004
Owner & Director
Photography As Art Gallery, Mason, TX
2000-2001
Director’s Assistant
David Floria Gallery, Aspen, CO
2000-2001
Apprentice to Master Framer
Floria Frameworks, Woodycreek, CO
2000-2001
Fine Art Photography Sales Manager
Edward Carter Gallery. Aspen, CO
June 2000-Sept. 2000
Archive Collections Intern and Ashcroft Ghost town tour guide
Aspen Historical Society, Aspen, CO
1998-1999
Gallery / Collections Management Intern
Wittliff Gallery, San Marcos, TX
Work with Lee Ann
If you are seeking professional art appraisal, curatorial guidance, or collection consulting, Lee Ann offers tailored services designed to meet your specific needs with precision and expertise.