Database Development
David Nash
David Nash is a renowned British sculptor known for his work with wood, trees, and the natural environment. He required a Claris FileMaker database solution to manage his extensive sculpture catalogue, worldwide gallery relationships, and studio operations.
Creative Brief
The Challenge
The studio needed to modernise their sculpture management system to better serve their expanding collection and global exhibition presence. Key requirements included:
Centralising sculpture and edition management
Strengthening gallery relationships and exhibition tracking
Streamlining workflow processes
Enhancing data accessibility and reporting capabilities
Our Solution
These key features revolutionised how the organisation managed day-to-day operations:
Unified Collection Hub: A centralised Claris FileMaker database for both original sculptures and editions, with the ability to link related pieces and track their status, location, and provenance.
Comprehensive Artwork Records: Detailed documentation for each piece, including materials, dimensions, weight, framing specifications, and shipping requirements.
Exhibition Tracking: Details of historic and current sculpture movements, gallery loans, costs, and logistics.
Intelligent Search: Quick search functionality and advanced filtering options to easily locate specific pieces or sets based on various criteria, for example by consignment.
Relationship Coordination: A robust contact system tracking ownership, consignments, and communication preferences for galleries, collectors, and institutions.
Location Visualisation: Google Maps integration showing sculpture locations, owner details, including internal storage spaces and external exhibitions.
Reference Linking: A system connecting publications, gallery catalogues, media coverage, and other references to relevant sculptures.
Visual Documentation: Support for multiple images per sculpture, with primary image designation and unique reference numbering.
Flexible Categories: Editable dropdown menus for materials, techniques, and other fields to accommodate the evolving needs of the studio.
Change Tracking: Modification logging to maintain a clear history of updates to sculpture records.
The Process
Our team collaborated closely with David Nash, his studio manager, and staff to ensure the solution met their specific requirements. The development process included:
Detailed requirements gathering and analysis
Custom UI design for optimal usability
Phased development with regular client check-ins
Comprehensive testing, including client acceptance period
Initial data migration
Deployment and post-launch support
Results and Benefits
The new solution has transformed how David Nash and his team manage their sculpture catalogue and studio operations:
Enhanced Efficiency: Centralised data management has streamlined workflows and reduced administrative overhead
Improved Accuracy: Robust structure and audit logging ensure data integrity and traceability
Quick Access: Advanced search and filtering capabilities enable rapid information retrieval
Future-Ready: Flexible architecture allows the system to evolve with studio needs
By delivering this specialised Claris FileMaker solution, we've helped modernise David Nash's studio operations, setting a strong foundation for continued growth in the fine art world.
Industry Solutions: We specialise in developing comprehensive software solutions for the fine arts sector. If you're interested in exploring how we can create innovative products that serve your industry, we welcome the opportunity to discuss potential partnerships.
