MIN-LI TAN
The art piece I want to own…
I have been eyeing Chinese contemporary artist Ling Jian for a few years now. His haunting images of doe-eyed, but slightly demented post Mao-era beauties have made Ling Jian one of my artists to watch.
The painting that I’ll never part with…
Corporate lawyer Min-Li Tan is as much at home in the auction house as the court room. She reveals what she will be adding to her enviable collections in 2014. It has to be my Zhu Wei, which occupies close to an entire wall in my house. This piece holds a very special place in my heart as it represents my first foray into Chinese contemporary art. Unlike many contemporary artists today, who endeavour to attract attention through outrageous images and political statements in their art, Zhu Wei’s subtlety and restraint has made him stand out.
The gallery I love…
Opera Gallery (www.operagallery.com), for the sheer variety and great mix of old masters and contemporary artists.
The auction I’ll never forget…
This would have to be an auction of Australian contemporary artists at Christie’s in London. I had set my heart on a piece by Howard Arkley. I took part in the auction via phone, which is probably a good thing n as I would have got carried away if I was in the auction room. The mer bidding commenced in increments of GBP5,000, until it nearly reached my limit, which was far more than the piece was worth. I asked my Christie’s representative to increase my bid by GBP1,000, but my competitor matched me again and again… I quickly realised that he would not stop, so I decided to back away. I emerged the under-bidder at that auction, but I helped nearly set a record for Howard Arkley. I enjoyed bidding for a lovely piece and I left without any financial damage.
The watch I’ll be bidding on…
I will be looking out for a Cartier Crash at the auctions as it is out of production. One of my regrets
is not buying one years ago.
The bottle of wine I’d like to add to my cellar…
Without doubt, any vintage of Henri Jayer Cros Parantoux. Henri Jayer is known as the godfather of burgundy wines. I was lucky enough to savour one and it was an experience I will not soon forget.