Jen Samson | Collector Profile

Q&A:

What inspires you to collect the work of emerging artists?

I am completely enthralled by the creative process - in design, art, food - all of it. In a world where everything moves so fast, slowing down long enough to create is something that transcends takes focus and work! The discovery of new artists who are evolving, exploring and ultimately creating is so exciting to me.

What are some of the most meaningful pieces in your collection?

The first piece of original art I ever bought is a large 5’ piece called Soldier Doily, by an artist out of New York named Elissa Levy. I purchased it in my mid 20’s while in NY for fashion week. I went with a friend to an edgy gallery to preview the art of her friend Elissa, who was a young and aspiring artist at the time. I was mesmerized by the collection - all laser cut felt pieces depicting soldiers in an oversized snowflake like pattern. I had it shipped back to LA, had it mounted & framed inside of an acrylic box, and hung it in my tiny LA apartment at that time. It still holds a prominent place in my home. It will be with me forever.

What was the first work of art you fell in love with?

I remember always admiring the art that my parents collected. They had (and still have) an original Lowell Nesbit piece. This piece is a painting of an Iris 1980, but for whatever reason, all I could ever see was a puppy face. To this day, I can’t seem to get beyond the floppy ears and bright orange tongue of the colorful flower! It is a constant reminder of my childhood. That piece in particular made me realize the power of art and how it can ignite feelings, spark ideas and resurrect memories.

How has the sentimentality of your collection evolved over time?

The pieces that truly matter in my personal collection will always move me, and they will likely be with me forever. Art is an instant reminder of moments, connections and experiences. I can’t think of anything more sentimental than that.

What is the most recent piece of art you added to your collection and why?

A vintage piece from Downtown Modernism in LA. My daughter actually picked it out of a large stack of “random” art pieces. It's a 1960’s long horizontal piece by an unknown artist depicting a large flock of blue flying cranes that have been debossed into the paper.

Is there a particular type of art you collect?

Tough question. I think the answer is no. I collect pieces that spark a feeling inside of me. I am drawn to texture, abstracts, nudes and faces, repetitive patterns. Some of the pieces I tend to collect include small brutalist sculpture pieces, vintage Japanese ikebana pottery, fun oddities like Robert Maxwell’s 1960’s animals.

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

I love working in my studio in Laguna Beach. We have a lovely ocean view, and that certainly doesn’t hurt. When I have a new project and the dreaming begins, that period of time where every idea sparks another idea - there are no limits.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I am always seeking inspiration, and it comes from everywhere. I discover new art through travel, shopping at flea markets, galleries, sourcing through incredible resources like TAPPAN, and on Instagram.

How do you go about finding new pieces to expand your personal art collection?

I am always shopping for but rarely seeking out something specific when it comes to finding new pieces. I buy what I love and find a place for it. There are rarely, if ever, any rules to what I am looking for. It's more about the immediate reaction I have towards a piece of art - that’s when my collection grows. I just have to love it.

For new collectors, do you have any advice you wish to impart? Do you have a collecting ethos or philosophy that you want to share?

If it moves you, if it stirs up emotion, if it makes you think, or cry, or smile - buy it!! it doesn’t matter where you found it or how much it cost. Art is for everyone.(and start early!)