Tracy Tutor | Collector Profile
A true powerhouse, Tracy Tutor is the founder of the Tracy Tutor Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate, star of Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, and a best-selling author. Her background in construction, combined with her design ethos, has opened doors to working with influential clients, helping them sell and purchase their most significant assets. She enjoys creating spaces that allow clients to showcase their homes while expressing their individuality. “It is a relationship that I treasure,” she shares. “It’s challenging, but rewarding when you can work together for the best result.”
In her own home, Tutor has curated a collection of works from Tappan artists Orrin Whalen, Sara Marlowe Hall, Danny Scott Lane, Sarah White, and Cheryl Humphreys. Explore her beautiful space and ethos on collecting.
Tutor pictured above with artwork by Orrin Whalen
![Artwork by Danny Scott Lane and Sara Marlowe Hall in the home of Tracy Tutor](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0941/7736/files/tracy-tutor-danny-lane47.jpg?v=1721023668")
Q&A:
Why would you recommend Tappan to someone looking for art?
It is original artists at price points that make sense for the consumer. Breaking into collecting art can be intimidating and Tappan’s resources make curating your art collection easy and seamless.
What inspires you to collect the work of emerging artists?
I love finding emerging artists because they are typically at a price point I am comfortable with. I look at art as an extension of my style and design aesthetic and secondarily, but also importantly, as an investment. I have found that when I collect up-and-coming artists who are backed and supported by a company like Tappan, I feel more comfortable that my investment will grow.
What is your earliest memory of art, and what led you to start collecting it?
My earliest memory of art was when I was 17 and saw a Keith Haring piece at my family friend’s home. I was so drawn to it and had no idea what I was looking at or how important of an artist Haring was. It wasn’t until years later, that I became friendly with a major collector and he said “Don’t be intimidated about getting in the collecting game–start small and buy what you love.” So that is what I did. I haven’t made money on any of my investment pieces because I love them too much to sell them!
How has the sentimentality of your collection evolved over time?
I have become more interested now in investing in emerging artists versus established ones. In the last 10 years, I have evolved, as has my collection. I can look back at each piece and remember where I was emotionally at that time in my life, and why I was drawn to it then and still now.
Is there a particular type of art you collect?
There isn’t one type for me. I enjoy it all!
Where and when do you feel the most creative?
Creating a sense of place where I am is the most creative space for me. Being in real estate, I visit a lot of homes and I like to feel something emotional when I walk through someone’s space. I help my clients create that in their homes whenever possible.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
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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?
Buy what you love. Don’t ask for 10 opinions. It’s in your space. You have to see it every day and be inspired and happy.
Describe your collection in three words.
Provocative, feminine, and fun.
“Tappan is a superb platform to explore and truly immerse yourself in the world of emerging artists. Dive deep into their creations, discover new talents, and enrich your understanding of art.”
“I love that fact that Chang takes a piece of abaca paper and with manipulation creates a beautiful texture and shapes that seem feminine to me and peaceful.”On Catherine Lucky Chang's A Bit of This And That
![artwork](https://www.tappancollective.com/cdn/shop/files/Solid-State-_Hush-Baby_-_2_47_25x51_25.jpg?v=1718237294&width=1000")
“Henryk’s use of acrylic here is incredible. The layering and depth with only one color invites touch and, in a room lacking texture, it can be very impactful.”On Henryk's Solid State 'Hush Baby' #2
“For me, a sculptural piece can create such a mood in a room. This piece, by Firoozeh Neman, is sexy. I like the power of the female figure in different shapes. I was drawn to her work immediately.”On by Firoozeh Neman's Twist & Shout II
“I am obsessed with the warm tones used in this textile piece, Heaviness. Using hemp to create earthiness, Chanee embraced the most beautiful shades of autumn colors. It would be a beautiful addition to a moody room or a neutral space to create warmth.”On by Chanee Vijay's Welcoming Each Beast
“Foraine, by The Heidies, is whimsical and romantic. The interest for me is in the series. The blurred movement against a neutral background inserting color is so playful and caught my eye right away.”On by The Heidies's Foraine
“Buy what you love. Don’t ask for 10 opinions. It’s in your space. You have to see it every day and be inspired and happy.”
