In anticipation of Art Basel 2021, we have a conversation with Simonida Pavicevic, specialist art advisor, curator, and co-founder of the House of Fine Art Gallery (HOFA). Having attended Art Basel annually for many years and with HOFA exhibiting this year at Art Miami, she gives us her thoughts on the world’s most prestigious art fair as well as her top tips for visiting collectors.
Here are Simonida Pavicevic’s 5 tips for buying at Art Basel this year:- First, know that whatever you can buy at Art Basel is a good investment because attendance is by invitation only and Art Basel is known to attract the best artworks and artists. So, collectors can be sure that whatever they buy at the fair is a good catch. However, collectors need to work within their budgets and be proactive. It’s important to do some research beforehand as most artworks are sold out not long after the show begins.
- Take the time to explore the whole of Art Basel to understand what’s available. I usually give my clients a guided tour of the fair. Some galleries release a program of what they’ll exhibit before the event. This can be helpful in choosing which item to buy but not all galleries do this. That’s why it’s important to go round the fairgrounds to see important galleries and artworks for yourself.
- Choose art that appeals to you; art that has the sort of visual impact and presence you want. The visual impact of the artwork on the collector is actually the first and most important thing. It’s all about how the art makes you feel and the visual moment that happens between you as a collector and the artwork.
- It’s also useful to research the artist, the story and inspiration behind the art, what message the artist was trying to get across through the work, where else the artist is exhibiting, and of course, the price of the artwork.
- Bear in mind that art is to be experienced. You’re not going to collect art and lock it away somewhere. You want to buy something you’ll enjoy looking at and experiencing because that’s what matters.
