Carolyn Pastel, AAA is a highly accomplished independent art consultant and certified appraiser, specializing in 20th and 21st-century Fine and Decorative Arts. As the Founder of Pastel Advisory, LLC, Carolyn brings over two decades of professional experience in the global art market, navigating both the East and West coasts of the United States.

Her career began in the international auction world, where she developed a deep expertise in modern design and contemporary art. Over the course of twelve years at Christie’s New York—one of the world’s leading auction houses—she rose to the role of Vice President, Head of Sale for 20th Century Decorative Art & Design. During her tenure, Carolyn played an instrumental role in curating and leading numerous high-profile auctions. She contributed to market-defining, record-breaking sales, solidifying her reputation as a leader in the field of decorative arts.

In 2017, Carolyn launched Pastel Advisory, LLC in San Francisco, offering specialized services including independent consulting, appraisal, and advisory work. Her firm focuses on building and managing collections, market analysis, valuations for private collectors, corporate clients, and institutions, as well as offering expert advice on acquisitions and sales in the ever-changing art market.

Beyond her auction experience, Carolyn is a thought leader in the field of design and decorative arts. She is a frequent contributor to Design Miami’s The Forum and regularly speaks and writes on topics related to art, design, and market trends. Her expertise has been recognized in prominent publications such as The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Maine Antiques Digest. In 2016, she was featured as a subject matter expert on Louis Comfort Tiffany in the documentary film Crazy About Tiffany’s, further cementing her status as a trusted voice in the decorative arts space.

Carolyn graduated cum laude from Amherst College and studied Arts Administration at NYU. She is a Certified Member of the Appraisers Association of America (AAA) and The Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) compliant.

With a blend of deep market knowledge, practical auction experience, and academic grounding, Carolyn offers unparalleled expertise in navigating the complexities of the modern art and 20th century design world. Whether working with private collectors, corporations, or institutions, she provides tailored solutions that align with the evolving landscape of the 20th and 21st-century art market.