Nina Takesh | Collector Profile

Featured artwork by Leigh Wells

Step inside the home and collection of tastemaker Nina Takesh. A sought-after Interior Designer, her passion lies in creating environments that balance sophistication with livability. Takesh has built an incredible following sharing her stunning taste and personal ethos on design. She shares with us her newly acquired Leigh Wells, and some of the other works she covets.

"My fascination with emerging artists stems from the pure creative energy they bring to the contemporary art landscape. There's an authenticity in their exploration that resonates deeply with how I approach interior spaces. Supporting these artists means being part of art history in the making.”

Q&A:

Why would you recommend Tappan to someone looking for art?

I recommend Tappan for their thoughtful curation that bridges fine art with livable spaces. They have an exceptional eye for emerging talent, presenting works that not only captivate but truly transform the environments they inhabit. Their platform makes the journey of collecting both accessible and meaningful.

What inspires you to collect the work of emerging artists?

My fascination with emerging artists stems from the pure creative energy they bring to the contemporary art landscape. There's an authenticity in their exploration that resonates deeply with how I approach interior spaces. Supporting these artists means being part of art history in the making.

What is your earliest memory of art, and what led you to start collecting it?

My journey into art is deeply intertwined with architecture - it's in my DNA, really. Growing up with a father who was an architect, I learned to see the world through a different lens.

The transition from appreciating architectural forms to embracing other artistic mediums felt completely natural. Architecture taught me about space, light, and proportion, which became the foundation for understanding all forms of visual art. Today, when I look at a painting or sculpture, I still find myself thinking about how it relates to space and human experience - that architectural influence never really leaves you.

How has the sentimentality of your collection evolved over time?

The sentimentality of my collection has grown naturally. Those vintage pieces from my childhood home set the foundation. I still have early vintage pieces from my childhood in my home today, which are beautiful anchors that remind me where my love for design began. Over time, my collection has become more intentional. I look for pieces that resonate beyond their visual appeal - ones that carry history or mark significant moments. It's fascinating to watch how each piece gathers new meaning as time passes, while still honoring its original story.

Is there a particular type of art you collect?

In terms of art collection, I'm drawn to pieces that enhance and elevate a space - works that create dialogue with their surroundings. I look for pieces that play with scale and light, like oversized photography that can anchor a room or sculptures that cast interesting shadows throughout the day. I'm particularly fond of textural pieces that add depth.

Where and when do you feel the most creative?

My creativity peaks when I'm traveling, especially during those quiet morning walks through new cities. There's something about being away from the familiar that sharpens your senses, makes you notice details you might otherwise miss. Sometimes it's just sitting at a café in a foreign place, watching how light moves across buildings, that sparks the most unexpected ideas.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

Inspiration comes from everywhere during my travels, like the perfect proportions of a Parisian staircase. I'm constantly photographing architectural details. I find myself drawn to the patina of old brass fixtures or the texture of centuries-old stone walls.

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?

For new collectors, I'd say start with pieces that genuinely move you. Don't worry about trends or investment value initially. Build your collection slowly and intentionally - each piece should feel like it belongs in your story. Pay attention to scale and how pieces will live in your space. And don't be afraid to mix periods and styles - some of the most interesting collections tell a story through contrast.

Describe your collection in three words.

Textural, Timeless, Evolving.

Share three people in the creative space who are inspiring you right now.

Right now, I'm deeply inspired by:

• Jean-Louis Deniot's masterful blend of classical elements with contemporary
• John Millei's and how his powerful exploration of form and color in space
• Paul Revere Williams' groundbreaking architectural vision and how it continues to influence modern design thinking

Nina Takesh's Favorites

“I love this piece because it speaks through texture. The way light plays across those beige waves reminds me of sand dunes shifting at dusk. In a space, it would add movement and warmth, bringing organic rhythm to clean architectural lines.”

On Wave Wall Sculpture by Jessica Sellinger

“I've been absolutely drawn to that burgundy geometric composition lately - there's something about this rich, dimensional color that feels both of-the-moment and utterly timeless. The way it recalls vintage leather-bound books while feeling distinctly contemporary speaks to me. Those wine-colored panels would create such warmth against the cream elements. The subtle blue accents create those perfect moments of visual relief that make the burgundy feel even more intentional.”

On Page 111 by Arran Rahimian

“This piece has such a beautiful tension between raw and refined. It's the perfect embodiment of what I love most in design - that balance between polish and authenticity. It would bring that handcrafted soul that no mass-produced piece can deliver.”

On Arch by Jonathan Yamakami

“What draws me to this piece is its reference to early modernist abstraction, bringing intellectual depth to a space. The piece would create a focal point without dominating, inviting closer observation.
Evening Dark Mornings

I'm compelled by how it evokes natural phenomena - perhaps clouds or water - while remaining abstract. This piece would introduce an element of tranquility and contemplation to a space ”

On Time Stops by Sara Marlowe Hall