The art of collecting: Farah Siddiqui Khan decodes the first edition of Young Collectors Weekend Global

In the 60’s, Herb and Dorothy Vogel, an unlikely duo comprising a humble postal clerk and his librarian wife, achieved the extraordinary feat of amassing a massive and vibrant art collection. Ranging from conceptual and minimalist art such as Sol LeWitt and John Chamberlin, their collection, totaling around 2,500 works. They approached art acquisition driven by a passion and a systematic approach to scout, evaluate, and acquire art. In their pursuit of mastering the hobby, the Vogels evolved into one of the most extraordinary collectors.

The act of collecting can become a form of self-expression and for some, it’s a means of showcasing status, loyalty, or attraction to a particular subject, evolving into a habit rooted in passion.

Moving beyond the realm of well-established and blue-chip art, there lies the exciting frontier of emerging artists, those in the early to middle stages of their careers, yet to gain widespread recognition. These artists represent the new vanguard of contemporary art, offering a glimpse into the future of the art world. Investing in their work early not only presents a potential financial gain but also supports the artist’s career development. Falling in love with an artist’s work becomes a driving force, transcending financial considerations.

Our endeavour with Young Collectors Weekend Global is to break down barriers of the art-world and make art approachable for aspiring collectors.
The ten artists featured in this edition comprise multiple mediums and practices:

Akshata Mokashi’s tapestry showcases the artist’s adept use of materials, creativity, and the interconnected elements in the work. Mokashi utilises eco-friendly fibres such as wool, cotton, and jute as well as exploring the realm of natural dyeing.

Textile artist Neha Puri Dhir encapsulates a sophisticated sensibility and an inherent simplicity where a state of inner tranquillity is evident in her artworks. 

Harish Ojha draws inspiration from his upbringing in a rural agrarian family to shape his present creations. Through the medium of paper, he employs abstract imagery in his artwork. For him, utilising organic materials such as paper imbues his pieces with a sense of life emerging from the silent Earth.

Printmaker Zarrin-Fatima Shamsi primarily showcases natural elements, aiming to convey her emotions and the memories intertwined with them. One could describe her visual style and method in painting and printmaking as both organic and sensitive. 

Deena Pindoria’s artistic inspiration is deeply rooted in the experiences of their ancestors during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971. The tales of bravery and tenacity recounted by her grandmother have significantly shaped Deena’s artistic expression. 

Pavan Kavitkar integrates miniature techniques and urban structural frameworks that exist in the realm between fiction and imagination, emphasising changes in both natural and urban environments. 

Delving into the spaces and society of her upbringing, Raka Panda observations on the unique lives, cultures, and livelihoods of people from her childhood. Her work, rich in descriptive narrative essence, elicits a cathartic response, as she empathetically seeks to capture the journey of society and the everyday experiences of individuals within her art. 

Namrata Kumar, an artist renowned for uncovering the extraordinary within the ordinary, derives inspiration from diverse cultures, people, and places. Her artwork intricately weaves together unfamiliar sights, sounds, colours, and aromas, reflecting the vibrant diversity of India.

Biswajit Saha’s practice draws inspiration from nature’s intricate designs, translating them into sculptural propositions that blend organic and geometric elements, influenced by artists like Barbara Hepworth, resulting in artistic designs reminiscent of living organisms. 

Drawing inspiration from Indian miniature paintings and ‘kantha’ Sanket Viramgami skillfully intertwines mythological figures with events from his immediate surroundings, weaving intricate stories in his art. 

The breadth of emerging art provides ample opportunities for collectors to discover original pieces that resonate with their unique interests. Building a niche collection focused on a particular style, genre or medium, becomes an exciting prospect. The next generation of artists play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of art by pioneering new mediums, such as digital art, and reimagining traditional forms like portraiture.

In the world of collecting, the journey is as significant as the destination, and each piece adds a layer to the narrative of the collector’s evolving passion.

Also read: Ian Lockwood shares his intuitive musings for the latest Sky Islands Exhibition at NCPA Mumbai