12 European Collectors on Discovering New Talent at Venice Biennale

CULTURED magazine asked 12 European collectors how they discover compelling new work during the 61st Venice Biennale. Nicole Saikalis Bay (Milan) starts with emotion and dialogue with existing works, citing Walter Price and Mandy El-Sayegh. Amélie du Chalard (Paris) focuses on the artist first, then the piece, and waited five years for a Chiharu Shiota. Belma Gaudio (London) collects by love and instinct, not rules. Laurent Asscher (Monaco) relies on museum visits, art fairs, conversations, and Larry Gagosian's guidance. Susanne Syz (Switzerland) prioritizes emotion and curiosity over trends, working with curator Nicolas Trembley. Laurence and Patrick Seguin (Paris) seek furniture with history and emotional resonance. Luca Bombassei (Milan) is drawn to words in art, from Jenny Holzer to Claire Fontaine. Grażyna Kulczyk (Poland) focuses on women's art from the 1950s-1980s. Valeria Napoleone (Milan) does her own research and studio visits, avoiding trends. Nicola Erni (Zug) collects works that give her goosebumps, including fashion and portrait photography. Rajan Bijlani (London) discovers through friendships with dealers like Michael Jefferson and Truls Blaasmo, and via books and social media.