STEWARDSHIP
ARTS AND ANTIQUES
THE ACADEMY OF
The Council
The Academy is guided by a founding council of professionals with experience across the arts, antiques, and cultural sectors. The Council brings together expertise in market practice, public engagement, education, and cultural leadership.
Together, it supports the Academy's mission to promote responsible stewardship, informed understanding, and the long-term care of arts and antiques.
HONORARY PRESIDENT
Eric Knowles FRSA
Eric Knowles is one of the United Kingdom’s most recognised antiques experts, widely known for his long-standing contributions to BBC television programmes including Antiques Roadshow and Bargain Hunt.A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), he has spent decades advancing public understanding of antiques and decorative arts through broadcasting, lecturing, and institutional engagement. Throughout his career, he has consistently advocated for responsible collecting and the preservation of the UK’s decorative arts heritage. His work bridges specialist expertise and public knowledge, bringing significant authority to the Academy.
Tom Keane
Tom Keane is an established antiques professional and founder of Swarm Fine Art. His work reflects a strong understanding of market dynamics, valuation, and collecting practices, with a commitment to ethical valuation and transparent market practice.
Oliver Strebel
Oliver Strebel is the founder of World Collectors, a specialist platform focused on toys, models, and collectible markets. He has a proven track record within international auction houses, with experience spanning valuation, specialist collecting fields, and market development. He brings a strong commitment to responsible collecting practices.
Vice president
chair of council
director
Tess Situ
FCCA, MSc, MA, BSc
Tess Situ is responsible for the development and direction of the Academy. She holds postgraduate qualifications in finance and antiques and is a chartered certified accountant. Her work focuses on the intersection of cultural assets and financial understanding, with emphasis on long-term value, responsibility, and informed decision-making.
COUNCIL MEMBER
COUNCIL MEMBER
Paul Hayes
Deborah Dodsworth FRSA
COUNCIL MEMBER
Robert Stoodley
Paul Hayes is a well-known antiques specialist and television presenter, recognised for his extensive work across antiques-related broadcast productions, including BBC programmes.He has broad expertise across multiple collecting areas and is widely respected for his ability to communicate complex subject matter in an accessible and engaging manner. He combines practical valuation knowledge with strong public engagement, and emphasises the importance of responsible communication, care for cultural objects, and ethical guidance.
FRSA
Deborah Dodsworth
Robert Stoodley
Deborah Dodsworth is a cultural leader and Director of City Arts Portsmouth CIC. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), she has extensive experience in arts education, community engagement, and programme development.Her work focuses on connecting audiences with artistic practice through structured cultural initiatives, bringing a community-grounded perspective to the Academy’s stewardship mission.
Robert Stoodley is a cultural educator and practitioner with a background in arts and interdisciplinary programme delivery.His work focuses on structured learning and public engagement, including the development of programmes that integrate music, literature, and visual culture. He contributes to the Academy’s educational framework and supports its broader cultural perspective.