Arts/Culture: People: Q&A with an Artful Traveler

Q&A with an Artful Traveler

Newcastle native Anita Zabludowicz is something of a celebrity in the contemporary art world. She began collecting in 1994 and has today amassed over 1,000 works from over 33 countries; in 2000 she also starred in the BBC documentary New EastEnders, which offered an inside look at London’s art scene. You can view works from Zabludowicz’ collection at 176 (www.projectspace176.com), her recently opened gallery in London.

As a passionate collector of contemporary art, what are your favorite cities for seeing new work? London is a totally amazing and exciting city and my favorite place to see art. But traveling is a must to keep on top of what is happening internationally. I recently visited Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires and China—all were incredibly fresh.

Can you name some of the galleries and museums you always make time to visit? I try to balance established museums and institutions with younger commercial and artist-run spaces. It’s important to experience both sides of every city. Recently I went to see Richard Flood’s New Museum in NYC and managed to fit in a quick visit to a few of the new, young galleries on the Lower East Side, such as James Fuentes (www.jamesfuentes.com) and V&A (www.vandanyc.com), both of which are very exciting. Obviously we will make it to the Whitney (www.whitney.org) this year to see the Biennale. The Baltic in Gateshead (www.balticmill.com www.balticmill.com) is also a must see, as well as Workplace (www.workplacegallery.co.uk), an artist-run gallery in Newcastle.

Are there galleries and museums you haven’t seen but are on your wish list? The Guggenheim in Bilbao (www.guggenheim.org).

Which art fairs do you recommend? And do you have any tips for first time attendees? NADA in Miami is totally brilliant. At Basel, go to Liste (www.liste.ch) and Volta (www.voltashow.com) and be methodical! At any fair though, make sure you look and be intuitive and try to see things you did not know already. Get the plan of the fair in advance and mark the galleries/artists you know you want to see, but also the ones you do not know. Head for the latter first. Also, make sure you have comfortable shoes, water, a camera and a notebook at hand.

Are there any places you find particularly inspiring or renewing? Berlin and Los Angeles. They have a young and vibrant scene and I always return feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

Any upcoming travel plans? We’re going to Japan with the Tate International Council.

What do you never leave home without? My camera.

Do you have packing routines? Yes! For two days I’ll bring a small handbag; for one week, a carry-on only. I pack as light as possible—thin clothes, a warm coat and a wool cardigan.

What are your favorite shopping destinations? Milan and Rome for clothes; Brazil and Paris for furniture.

What was your last splurge? An amazing pair of white patent leather shoes with six-inch jewel-encrusted heels from Rome.

What do you dream of buying? More art and clothes.

What is your most treasured possession from abroad? My husband! He is from Finland, and we spend our summers at our home there.