– Tell us who you are in 50 words or less.
Native Californian who views myself as a frustrated artist. I have such an admiration for artists and their talent. Since I could not create art, I made the decision to collect art. My parents were collectors and got the bug from them. Once I started, I have not looked back.
– What current art trends do you wish would die?
Sterile corporate minimalism and algorithmic AI art generation are trends that need to fade away. These styles often prioritize superficial visual tricks or empty branding over genuine human expression.
– What current art trends are you obsessed with?
Affordable & Access-Friendly Art. The democratization of art is accelerating. As collectors become more diverse and global, there’s a growing demand for works that are emotionally resonant yet accessible—both in price and aesthetic. This movement emphasizes sincerity over status, warmth over prestige, and connection over spectacle. It reflects a broader shift in how we value art: not just as luxury, but as part of everyday life.
– What do you require from an artist you collect?
Certificate of Authenticity with a signed paper from the artist with the title, date, medium, and size. A signature as the artist’s mark on the front or back of the work. Quality and good materials like safe paint, paper, or ink that will not fade or fall apart quickly.
– Strangest collecting experience?
Bought a painting in Santiago, Chile and carried it throughout South America and on the last flight home I ended up leaving it on the plane. Fortunately, when I ran back to the gate the flight attendant was holding it and handed it to me. It was a close one.
– Favorite or strangest places you meet with artists outside of their studio or your home?
At artists-related events like concerts, live theaters, bar.
– Favorite or strangest places you meet with artists outside of their studio or your home?
Lucian Freud, David Hockney, Georgia O’Keefe.
– Most valuable lesson learned from collecting?
The most valuable lesson learned from collecting art is that personal taste is a mirror and true value comes from emotional connection rather than financial status. Buying what you genuinely love matters far more than trying to predict market trends.
– Any advice to new collectors?
Buy what you love: Focus on emotional connection and pieces you want to see every day rather than short-term market trends. Start small: Build confidence and an eye for quality by purchasing prints, works on paper, or editions before investing in major pieces. Look in person: Visit local galleries, open studios, and smaller art fairs to experience texture, scale, and lighting up close. You can search for nearby spaces using platforms like Artsy to find current local exhibitions.
– What artwork do you have above your bed?
A pencil sketch of two dress shirts on hangers. The piece was given to me in the early 80’s as a remembrance of my partner who passed from AIDS and myself.
– I wish gallerists would…
Welcome casual visitors instead of making them feel unwelcome or judged for not buying. Support local art scenes by engaging with emerging talent outside elite circles. Focus on long-term mentorship rather than treating art strictly as a fast-cash retail commodity.
– First artwork purchased and why?
Photo by Herb Ritts. I have always been a fan of his work and thought I would not be able to afford his work. The gallery set up a payment plan (so grateful for their support) and was able to purchase the photograph.
– New collectors should…
Buy what they genuinely love, set a clear spending limit, and study the art market in person. Avoid rushing purchases or following short-term hype.
– Please don’t…
Buy art expecting a quick financial return, as the market is unpredictable and illiquid. Demanding massive discounts: Do not open a relationship with aggressive haggling or try to ask for steep price cuts unsuited to your buyer status. Trying to cut out the gallery: Do not attempt to buy directly behind a gallery’s back from an artist they represent, which ruins professional trust.
– I’m in a friendly competition with…
Me – Spending less and obtaining more. Focusing on themes of local artists paintings and photography.
