Academic Foundation

Reagan’s career in the arts began with formal study. After serving as an Army lieutenant stationed in Europe, he was inspired by extensive visits to major museums, which led him to pursue graduate study in art history upon his return to the United States. He earned an M.A. from the University of Chicago, completing his thesis on nineteenth-century French art, and subsequently served as Managing Editor of The National Arts Guide.

Art Market Education

In 1981, Reagan moved to New York City and began a thirty-year career as a dealer in nineteenth- and twentieth-century American and European art. He directed galleries on Madison Avenue, gaining what he describes as a “second education” in the realities of the art market.

Working directly with works of art provided essential practical knowledge of condition, conservation, framing, authenticity, and provenance. Just as importantly, it offered an understanding of how value is determined in real-world market conditions. As one of his early mentors remarked, “You’ll never know what a painting is worth until you try to sell it.” This market-based perspective continues to inform Reagan’s appraisal practice today.

Appraisal Practice & Professional Leadership

In 2013, Reagan transitioned to private consulting, working with long-time collectors to deaccession artworks and broker sales to institutions and private collectors. Over time, professional appraisal has become the primary focus of his work.

His appraisal practice is grounded in recognized professional standards and leadership:

• USPAP-Compliant Appraisals: Appraisals for insurance, estate, and charitable donation purposes fully comply with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP).
• Appraisers Association of America (AAA): A long-standing member of the AAA, Reagan has served on committees, presented educational programs, and, in 2024, was invited to join the organization’s Board of Directors.
• National Endowment for the Arts: Reagan has served as a panelist for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

Areas of Specialty

Reagan appraises American, European, and Contemporary art, with particular expertise in murals and other public works of art. He has extensive experience working with artists’ estates, providing valuations and advising trustees on the stewardship and disposition of estate-owned artworks.

Writing, Scholarship & Public Engagement

Reagan’s scholarship and professional insight are widely recognized:

• Reviewer of contemporary exhibitions for Art in America for many years
• Author of published articles on Edward Kienholz and Lothar Baumgarten (Art in America)
• Contributor to The Magazine Antiques, including an article on the Ash Can School
• Additional publications and reviews in The New Art Examiner, Portfolio, The Kresge Museum Bulletin, and The San Francisco Chronicle
• Book reviewer for The Washington Post and Art & Auction
• Frequent speaker on collecting strategies for museum groups nationwide
• Author of an ongoing blog followed by collectors and museum professionals
• Expert witness in art-related litigation, providing market and academic analysis in legal contexts

Contact

If you require a USPAP-compliant appraisal or expert guidance in art valuation, Reagan welcomes the opportunity to discuss your needs.