Making Public- The Art of Collecting

A panel discussion titled ‘Making Public- The Art of Collecting’ was organised by FLO on September 15, 2014. The esteemed panellists were – Kiran Nadar, Trustee of the Shiv Nadar Foundation&Chairperson, Kiran Nadar Museum of Art; Nitin Bhayana, Director Bhayana Group and Feroze Gujral, Founder of Gujral Foundation. The session as moderated by Gayatri Sinha, art critic and curator.

The objective of the session was to educate the members on the Art of Collecting, with expert inputs from the stalwarts, drawing from their in-depth and varied personal experiences.

The session provided an insight into the process of collecting art and the role of private patronage in Indian contemporary Art. It also provided a first –hand perspective on the growing Indian art market and evolution of Indian Art on the global stage.

FLO President Neeta Boochra, in her welcome address said,”In conjunction to the theme of the year ‘Educate & Empower’, the session will provide an insight into the process of collecting art and the role of private patronage in Indian contemporary Art. It will also empower us to take empowered decisions while investing in art.”

Kiran Nadar emphasised on the need of private endeavour in the field of art rather than depending on the government role. She also mentioned that her inspiration in collecting art is not just the aesthetic appeal of pretty pictures but strong, hard-hitting and meaningful art work.

Nitin Bhayana spoke on the instinctive ability to effectively research, evaluate and buy work of art. He also spoke on the various risks of lending art work for exhibitions in India and abroad including damage and loss.He added that being true to one’s tastes is the key to maximize not only the quality and value of art, but also add significance to appreciation and understanding of that art.

As a promoter of art, Feroze Gujral’s motto is ‘Business of Benevolence’, inspired by theory of Rockfeller. She shared her journey of creating a unique platform of philanthropic private funding for new art in public space. Connecting with art enthusiasts, collectors, museums, curators and artists, she aims at building India’s pride.

Gayatri Sinha beautifully moderated the session with her expert inputs as an Art critic and curator. She stated that Museums, collectors, critics & connoisseurs can collectively push the positive energy of any art work. She added that Art is not only the accrual of the work of the artist but involves the history of the efforts while creating a particular piece.

Archana Garodia Gupta, Sr. Vice President, in her vote of thanks thanked the panellists for providing such a wonderful platform to understand the art of collecting and being inspired to do it in the right manner.

Ritu Vadehra, Governing Body member coordinated and brought together a panel of dynamic and enthusiastic art experts.

Priyanka Malhotra, FLO member hosted the event.

Key takeaways:

• Art collection is not just collecting pretty pictures but strong , hard hitting pieces of art
  Private endeavour is essential to promote art
• Art is a business of benevolence
• Philanthropy for sustainability can go a long way in the business of art
• Collaborative efforts will help encouraging the art scene in India
• High price should not be confused with quality work
• Art criticism should be available in public domain
• Museum Culture should be invigorated in India