A Bermudian art expert has linked up with a top US-based international art group to offer advisory services in Bermuda.

Nicholas Lusher, who runs the Lusher Gallery in New York, has joined forces with the Winston Art Group, which operates in America and around the world.

He said: “We are both New York-based businesses and we are collaborating together.”

Mr Lusher operated two successful art galleries in Bermuda before opening in New York and continues to run Nicholas Lusher Antiques and Fine Art Bermuda, although he spends most of his time in the US.

He said: “I still occasionally operate in Bermuda, but I live more than 95 per cent of the time in New York.”

The Winston Art Group said: “Nicholas is one of the foremost specialists in Bermudian fine and decorative art.

“With family roots in Bermuda stretching back to the 17th century, Nicholas has dedicated his career to the Bermudian art market.”

The statement added: “As the largest independent art appraisal and advisory firm in the US, Winston Art Group is uniquely positioned to advise clients on the acquisition and sale of all types of fine art, decorative art, jewellery, and collectibles in the primary and secondary markets, through dealer, gallery, private sale and auction transactions.”

The group added: “Nicholas Lusher and Winston Art Group are thrilled to be on board together to coordinate and assist with acquisitions and sales in Bermuda.

“Nicholas will continue to operate independently in his traditional areas of dealing in all manner of Bermuda and Caribbean-related works of art and Winston Art Group will continue its traditional services outside of Bermuda.

“However, for Bermuda and Caribbean clients, we are now delighted to offer collaborative services and support of a local leading expert to assist with acquisitions and sales with the backing of Winston Art Group’s appraisal, advisory and collection management departments.”

Mr Lusher has worked in the art and antiques business since the 1980s, beginning his career in London, where he also studied visual arts at the Sotheby’s Institute of Art.

Winston Art Groups services targeted worldwide searches, advice on condition, price authenticity and quality and price negotiations on behalf of clients.

Clients who want to sell works of art and other items can also use Winston to solicit proposals from primary and secondary sources, negotiate terms of sale and financial packages, as well as provide access to preferential terms and auction and serve as a single point of contact for all transactions.