I HAVE always been interested in the visual arts. For five years I worked at Centenary College of Louisiana's art museum, and I also studied art history in graduate school. Perhaps my interest in art explains why I've felt drawn to design professionals, particularly architects, during my insurance career. Indeed, the best designs have genuine aesthetic appeal–while meeting all the practical considerations of professional architecture, of course.

I joined Querbes & Nelson 22 years ago. The agency was founded in 1914 by my grandfather. My brother and I, currently the agency's two principals, represent the third generation of family ownership. The agency long has been involved in contractors insurance, so perhaps it is not surprising that we also developed a specialty for design professionals. Currently we insure about 40 of them. While they include large firms with statewide oprations, most are sole practitioners who are involved in commercial projects, as opposed to condominiums, apartment complexes or other residential structures. Most also have private clientele, although some work for local parishes, schools and other governmental entities.

Most of our marketing activity is conducted in conjunction with AIA Louisiana, the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects. For instance, we advertise in its membership directory and take part in its conventions. Our agency, which once provided captive services for the association, has been endorsed by it for many years, although we do not have a proprietary program for it.