Timothy Tan’s international contemporary art collection is growing alongside the thriving art scene in Manila. The Filipino businessman in interior design has made very good use of his work trips to visit art museums and galleries in various countries. The fruit is an eclectic collection of bright-colored artworks by international emerging artists.
LARRY’S LIST chatted with Timothy Tan about how a Murakami print sparkled his passion for international contemporary art; the various artists who are on his wish list; how Instagram has made international art approachable; the three emerging artists he recommended to be on our radar; as well as why he would like to showcase his art collection publicly in an upcoming exhibition.
Collecting
What made you want to start collecting art? What is the main motivation behind your collecting?
Being in the business of interior design here in Manila, I found myself travelling oftentimes for work. Whenever I would be out of town, I would always allocate extra days to go around museums and galleries and appreciate various works of art.
Because of work, it became natural for me to be drawn to beautiful things. Eventually, I had developed an eye for art. This has evolved to be a passion, which has been nurtured by the growing local art scene and me cultivating friendships with artists and art dealers.
When did you fall in love with a piece of art? What was it?
In 2012, I was travelling in Singapore. There as a small gallery in Marina Bay Sands, where I saw the print of Murakami, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. So before flying home, about 2 days after I first set eyes on the Murakami, this is the beginning of my passion for international contemporary art.
What is your focus regarding the artists in your collection? Are you more interested in emerging or renowned artists, local or international artists?
I am focused now on international emerging artists, but my appreciation for local artists will always be at the heart of my devotion to art.
Is there a theme that unites all the works you have acquired?
Lately, I find myself getting drawn to bright colors, such as the works of Vaughn Spann. Usually, I get attracted to bright reds.
What were the first and the latest artworks you purchased?
The very first artwork I purchased was by Ronald Caringal from Metro Gallery, and this was a piece of pop art. To this day, I still have this piece, and I find that I am still inspired by it.
My most recent piece is by George Rouy from Nicola Vasell Gallery in New York. I was grateful and ecstatic that I was able to get this piece that speak to me in so many ways.
How many artworks do you own? Where do you display your collection?
As in other people’s collections, mine continuously evolves. For international artists, I find myself with about 70-80 pieces. These are pieces that I place in different parts of my home, and in my design showroom. I am thankful to be able to support the artists in the early and mid- stages of their careers.
Would you wish to present your art collection publicly?
Currently, there are plans to show the collection at the De La Salle University – College of Saint Benilde Center for Campus Art in Manila. It has been postponed unfortunately due to the pandemic, so hopefully it will push through soon! Additionally, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and I are in talks for a possible exhibition of selected works from my collection this fall.
What considerations guide you to make a purchase?
To be honest, a lot of times, it is when a piece speaks to me. I trust my instinct, and when the impulse hits, I go along with it. I pray and hope that I get it and sometimes I don’t. I leave it all to fate.
What is the dream artwork that you wish to own?
There is definitely a list of pieces that I wish to own – and I work hard to hopefully realize this and highlight them on my walls.
Pieces that I dream to own are some of those by Chrisitna Quarles, Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, Genesis Tramaine, Lucy Bull, Danielle Mckinney, and Anastasia Bay.
How important is it for you to meet the artists who created the artwork?
I think that having the chance to meet with the artist makes the artwork all the more special and meaningful to me. It helps me understand the inspiration behind each artwork and deepens my connection to the art piece. On an exceptional occasion, my friend from Almine Rech gallery organized a studio visit with Vaughn Spann, and I am sincerely grateful for the extraordinary experience. Ideally, cultivating personal relationships with the artists enhances the journey of collecting.
How do you discover artists and artworks? Have you bought any works via Instagram?
As an art enthusiast, I have, in the past 10 years, utilized the many avenues to purchase artworks. Instagram has been one of them. I have found the internet to work in my favor, as it has given me countless possibilities. Instagram has made international art approachable to a lot of people, including me.
The Art World
What was your happiest moment being involved in art?
I think the friendships I have developed in the art world have enriched my life. Meeting new friends is always exciting for me.
How is the art scene in the Philippines now? How do you interact or support the local art scene as an art collector?
The art scene in the Philippines has grown throughout the years and has continued to flourish. It has been essential as an art collector, and it is a significant and vital part of my journey. I appreciate and enjoy the local art scene. I often interact with the organizers of the art fairs (Art Fair Philippines, for example) and maintain friendships with the auction houses like Leon Gallery.
Up and coming
Can you name three emerging artists who should be on our radar?
Personally, I would watch out for Coco Young, Bambou Gili, and Sarah Kim.
What are you especially excited about in regard to art in 2022?
As countries re-open their borders, I look forward to travelling for art fairs, exhibition openings, and meeting art friends.
You are preparing for an exhibition to show your art collection. What is your motivation to exhibit your collection publicly? Why we should watch out for that?
As collecting art has given me a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me, I hope to engage the young minds of today – to spark their curiosity and broaden their imagination. I hope to share with the younger generation this part of my personal journey. Also, it is because I hope to — in one way or another—celebrate the uniqueness and talent of each of the artists whom I support.
Instagram: @timtan823
A selection of artists Timothy collects:
Andrea Marie Breiling
George Rouy
Guy Yanai
Jess Valice
Lauren Quin
Vaughn Spann
By Ricko Leung
