The art of "Conscious Collecting"

Everyone can experience the art of collecting.  Contemporary art is not just an experience reserved for the wealthy, elite or art historian.  Today there's a wide selection of original art by talented emerging and mid-career artists from around the world that's available and accessible to anyone who can afford a IPod or Flat Screen TV.  

Collecting contemporary art is a creative experience, a journey of self-discovery and self-expression.  When you buy art by living artists you not only enrich your own life, you actively support the world of living artists.

Buy Art You Love

Be a conscious collector by going to gallery and museum exhibits on a regular basis, checking out the art pubs, reading popular Art Blogs and Magazines, and learning about the artists that engage you and what influences their worl.  Think about how the work makes you feel.  Don't simply think of a work of art as decorating a room or going with a piece of furniture.  Your art purchase should outlive your taste in home decor.  Trust your gut and your instincts.  But avoid what feels too comfortable or overly familiar.  And don't be afraid to mix different styles and genre of art.

Talk to the Gallery Owner

Learn about the artist from the gallery owner.  Ask for a copy of the Artist Statement, a bio or CV. Find out where the artist has exhibited, where he/she went to school or who they studied with.  Ask about the artist's technique, influences, and the inspiration behind the work.  The gallery owner or dealer should be a good source of background information on the artist and the work.  If not, then maybe you should do your own homework and work with another gallery.  Don't give into sales pressure. The gallerist should be well-informed and enthusiastic about discussing the work, but not aggressive.

Living With Your Art

Buying your first or fiftieth work of art can be very exciting.  But don't get caught up in the moment and neglect some necessary precautions that will help safeguard your work.  If handled properly your artwork should last a lifetime and beyond.  Here's a few things to keep in mind to properly care for your artwork.

Document Your Purchase

* Request a Bill of Sale along with a Letter of Authenticity

* Get a copy of the artist's statement, resume and biographical information.

Keep it on the back of the artwork and put a copy in a safe place.

* Find out what type of artist's medium, for example: acrylic, charcoal, pastel,

watercolor, oil, etc.  Make sure you ask how to protect and take care of the

work.

Party with a purpose: the art of collecting and giving back.

The economy may be in a deep freeze, but New Yorkers are never slow to accept an invite to a cool party. With a new guy in the White House, New Yorker’s are looking for any excuse to party --while discovering new ways to entertain at home.

One new “party” venture, started by Lisa Cooper and Joan Daidone of
Elisa Tucci Contemporary Art, stages “Art at Home Events” in the private and intimate setting of young collectors’ homes.

“Think of it as a ‘Trunk Show’ of original art. Instead of designer fashions or jewelry we bring a selection of artwork from emerging and established artists.” says Gallery Owner, Lisa Cooper. “Our party hosts are art enthusiasts who want to share their love of contemporary art with their friends. Our clients provide the wine, cheese, light fare and drinks. We provide the artwork and stage an exhibit in their home.”

The “salon” style gatherings allow the host to introduce their friends to artists, gallerists or curators in a relaxed and comfortable environment. “The parties are a fun way to learn about contemporary art in a casual setting.
It’s like having an art opening in your living room – without the uptight attitude or pretensions,” says ETCA Gallery Partner, Joan Daidone.

Working alongside the host, Lisa and Joan create a private event designed to introduce novice, as well as more seasoned collectors to “The Art of Conscious Collecting.” In addition, ETCA offers advise on not only how to collect art, but how to care for and protect your original artwork.

ETCA Art Parties give party-goers an insider view of the contemporary art scene – as well as a chance to give back to their communities. With a mission to “change the world through art”, ETCA donates 5% of every art sale to charitable organizations that inspire and heal disadvantaged children through art. Donations are made to the host’s favorite cause or one of the charities associated with the gallery. Lisa Cooper is a volunteer with Free Arts NYC www.freeartsnyc.org and Joan Daidone is on the Board of Directors for Ninos del Lago in Guatemala.

With a portfolio of contemporary art from both local and internationally-acclaimed artists, ETCA is able to offer access to an extensive collection of works by artists currently in the permanent collections of major museums, corporate and private collections.

Joan and Lisa will stage the “Private Art Parties” anywhere within Manhattan, the Hamptons and the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut Tri-State Area, as well as the Berkshires. Other areas may be available on a case-by-case basis.

About Elisa Tucci Contemporary Art (www.elisatucciart.com)

Elisa Tucci Contemporary Art represents both emerging and established artists working in traditional, mixed and new media. Joan and Llisa chose to represent work that they love, art that is timeless and transformational on an emotional, spiritual or intellectual level.

Elisa Tucci Contemporary Art currently represents sixteen artists from around the world, as well as dozens of other artists whose work is offered through ETCA’s art consulting services. Artists are selected for mastery of their technique and craft, singular and unique creative vision, and commitment to their art.

Artists currently represented include: Rosalind Schneider’s video installations and digital fusion paintings; Elaine Galen’s surrealist and mysterious landscapes; Amy Cheng’s magical world view; Miriam Brumer’s animated microcosms of organic environments; Carol Bennett’s waterscapes and aquatic explorations; Jon DePreter’s contemporary wood sculptures and totems, Kimber Berry’s Liquid Landscapes; Michael Barletta’s Live Paintings. The full portfolio can be viewed online at www.elisatucciart.com