SeminArts completes first successful series

Kaleidoscope (Central Park) Oil and acrylic on canvas - Dil Hildebrand 2008Image courtesy of the artist

SeminArts was conceived to promote the appreciation and collecting of art as a public educational outreach program. It is a joint initiative between the SBC Gallery of Contemporary Art and the Stephen R. Bronfman Foundation. Our hope is to provide you with a greater understanding of the contemporary art scene in Quebec through a series of lectures that examines the “art of collecting” from five artistic interactions: the private collector - individual and corporate, the artist, the gallery owner and the art advisor. Our goal is to demystify, to raise awareness and to begin to acquaint you with the Montreal art scene. The greater your curiosity, the better your collecting skills will become.​

“There is simply no substitute for looking at art. Aside from being a highly pleasurable and rewarding activity, it is also the best training for any collector” (Owning Art: The Contemporary Art Collector's Handbook, Louisa Buck and Judith Greer). Before actually purchasing a work of art, it is important to get a general overview and understanding of the different periods of art; look at art of the past, the recent past and the present. Go to museums, galleries - public and commercial, exhibitions centres, art fairs and private collections. See as much art as you can. Read as much as you can. There is no right or wrong way to collect. Collecting is personal and reflective of your personality. It is important to learn the basics. You may choose to buy art as an investment, a new business venture. You may collect because you like a particular artist. You may buy to enhance your home. Perhaps it is an activity that you share with a partner. Whatever the reasons, it is challenging, exhilarating, educational, and fun.