About us
Buchanan & Co. is a strategic advisory focused on contemporary art from Africa. We work with private and corporate clients to build meaningful collections, shape art strategies, and realise exhibitions and commissions with clarity and intention. With deep knowledge of the market and close relationships with artists and institutions, we guide each project from concept to completion - ensuring thoughtful acquisitions and culturally resonant outcomes.
SERVICES
Private And Corporate Art Advisory, Strategy And Execution.
Our Services
Advisory
Collection Building | Expert advice on building an art collection (private or corporate) that aligns with your personal taste and goals.
Market Research | Insight into market trends.
Strategy
Collection Proposal | Establishment of thematic frameworks for your collection/s based on your interests and preferences.
Strategy Development | Providing a comprehensive strategy that includes public programming, strong partnerships, and collaborations.
Execution
Custom Productions | Artist commissions, public installations, and exhibition production.
Bespoke Art-related Events | Talks, studio visits, dinners, and walkabouts.
FOUNDER
Julia Buchanan
THE DIRECTOR
Julia Buchanan is a Cape Town–based art advisor and cultural strategist specialising in Contemporary Art from Africa. She is a member of the Harvard University Center for African Studies Art Initiative Group and holds an MA in Cultural Leadership from the Royal Academy of Arts and the Maastricht School of Management, a BA in Fine Art (Painting) from the Michaelis School of Fine Art, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship. Her work sits at the intersection of creative practice and business strategy.
Julia’s career includes roles at leading art institutions, notably Norval Foundation. Her approach is research-driven and relationship-led. Through her work, Julia supports collectors, corporates, and cultural organisations in navigating the art ecosystem with clarity, integrity, and long-term vision - contributing to a more sustainable and critically engaged art landscape.
In 2023, she founded Art School Africa, a registered non-profit organisation focused on equipping emerging art professionals across Africa with practical industry knowledge and business acumen.
Blending deep market expertise, entrepreneurial drive, and a commitment to uplifting local talent, Julia is reshaping how collectors and corporates engage with art from Africa.
CAREER
Assistant Intern / Zeitz MOCAA
2015
Patrons Coordinator / Norval Foundation
2018 - 2020
Founder / Art School Africa
2022 - present
Member / Harvard University African Art Initiative Group
2022 - present
Mentor / Pick n Pay Clothing Futurewear Programme
2022 - present
