I know no one who loves art like my sister, she would do most anything for a work of art that she loves, we have entered auctions together and held hands in the nail biting countdown to a winning bid. It is a drug and the high last forever, as long as you see the work of art hanging on your wall. In her growing collection are a Seydou Keita and Malick Sidibé, two masters of photography whose works she sets much store by. Indeed when in New York for 1-54 art fair, and a Seydou Keita she had her eye on had sold, I am sure I saw tears, her lips were definitely quivering. For her, and myself, Art is a fundamental part of history trapped in time that tells a wider story. Art is also one of life’s most important pleasures, important because it reveals the a depth of the artist and their life story.
Naturally, when I wanted to write an article on art and its curation as a beginner collector, amateur if you will, I tapped into her expertise on how one can go about starting their collection and then some…
What do you look for in an artist?
It depends on the type of artist. Generally, I look for someone with individuality, a unique story and longevity. It’s easy when an artist has a book of work behind them, say for example a Degas, then in that case, I don’t need anything but a good price. For a new artist, it’s all about what connects me to their work. I’m currently in love with the work of an artist I recently discovered Amadou Opa Bathily. I love his use of mixed media and connected with his storytelling instantly.
Upon reflection, I guess the answer to your question is that I look for nothing in particular, I am mostly led by the feelings I have towards the work.
Three of the Most incredible work of art; in your opinion?
I’ll answer this begrudgingly because I can list hundreds of incredible works of art. I’ll have to go with artworks that made me fall in love with art at age 13, works I’ve seen in person.
Les desmoiselles d’Avignon by Picasso (at the MoMA) – the landmark painting started the cubist movement. After I finished Uni, I went to New York to view this painting and sat in front of it for 10 minutes. It was such an emotional experience to see something that I’d always seen in my art books. This painting cemented my love affair with New York and I have to view it each time I visit.
Miss La La at the Cirque Fernando at the (National Gallery, London.) I also love his piece Ballet Dancers also on view there. Degas was the first artist I saw who used pastels in such a vivid way.
Simone Leigh’s sculptures. I got to see her at the Guggenheim in NY again and was blown away by their imposing majestic nature. Sentinel is my favourite and is otherworldly.
How should amateurs and enthusiasts start collecting art?
Start by visiting art galleries and art fairs to develop a unique taste and understand what you genuinely like as opposed to what you think you should like. Be inspired by the likes of Peggy Guggenheim who set her own path.
When I started to collect art, I thought that I should focus on pieces that will grow in value but then it becomes a business and rather stressful. For me, it should start with the love of the work, everything else is secondary.
When building your collection, do remember that art comes in many forms. We can’t all afford a Picasso so start to build slowly.
One can buy limited prints created by art galleries for one-off exhibitions. It’s work checking where your favourite artist is next showing and if any signed, limited prints are offered. I missed out on a Faith Ringgold in Serpentine Gallery that I constantly stalk.
Books are also your friend. I get limited edition books that come with a print. Sebastien Girard have created some special ones by Sory Sanle and Malick Sidibe.
Interesting interpretations of established artists on other objects, like the Basquiat skateboard. I don’t currently have the budget for an original Basquiat but this one makes me happy enough.
Sites like www.saatchiart.com also allow you to buy from independent artists around the world.
How do you find online auctions?
I like to say, google is your friend. Search for art auction websites and browse through different auction houses that come up. Sometimes you fine a piece you love at an unexpected auction house and at a good price because not many there might be interested.
I do spend too much time on google.
I am also registered in artsy.net and that notifies me on certain artists that I follow when their works become available. It is good to register on several auction houses as they send out newsletters on their upcoming auctions or one-off special sales.
What strategies if any do you use?
I tend to leave my bids until late on the day. This way any previous bidders are unaware of the competition and may be caught napping lo
During a live auction what three watch outs do you have?
Beware of add-on fees. Auction houses can charge between 20-30% on top of what you pay. As well as taxes on top of that. Plus shipping fees can be quite costly especially international ones.
Stick to your budget and do not be led by the adrenaline rush.
Relax and enjoy the moment. Auctions can drag on, so don’t be shocked if you ae stuck watching one for several hours.
Three works you would like to have in your collection.
Anything by Frida Kahlo.
A Gordon Parks photograph.
A Degas pastel drawing. That would be so insane!
Most treasured works you own.
My Malick Sidibe print as it was the first auction win.
I also managed to get a rather rare Kara Walker book via Etsy. That gave me such a thrill!
What three artists should one be on the lookout for?
I’m not sure I’m the right person to answer this as I am a creature of habit, looking back at what I already know. That said, I do love Amadou Opa Bathily’s work and think the future looks bright for him.
Most obscure online auction you attended?
I attended one in North Carolina and it was worth it because I finally got my Seydou Keita. After years of being outbid in London, I finally found it in North Carolina!
How does it feel when you acquire a work of art?
I think about my bank balance and tell my husband the price as I most likely have gone over the limit. However, when it is up, I get a sense of calm and reflection. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to collect art. I’m not into shoes, clothes or cars; give me a rare book or piece of art and I’m all yours!
What is the next work of art you have in your sight?
A Faith Ringgold print.
Ta sis. Sorry she has no presence on social media, she is a workaholic all round so you’ll have to contend with me.