Art and Soul
Aureo Gallery founder Serena Chiam shares her top tips for building a collection of artworks that stands the test of time
A rose by any other name might smell as sweet. But when
Serena Chiam saw a “golden rose” in Seoul, she knew that specific bloom was exceptional. The gold painting by Korean artist
Kim Il Tae moved her so much, the businesswoman left the insurance industry and founded Aureo Gallery in 2017 in Kuala Lumpur.
“I started this gallery to bring Kim Il Tae to the international art world,” says Chiam. “His art is more than just a 2D painting in gold, as it has layers of gold painted onto the canvas. This creates a multidimensional piece that allows the audience to enjoy different views from various angles. He is the only artist in the world to paint 24k gold directly onto the canvas, instead of using gold leaves or gold foil.”
Aureo Gallery has since expanded its presence to Singapore, Indonesia and the
US, while participating in art exhibitions globally. The gallery also represents a range of artists from different career stages and styles of art to provide more choices for art lovers. Here, Chiam shares her insights about art collecting, and how the gallery aims to connect more collectors with pieces they will treasure for a lifetime and beyond.
How can one start building an art collection?
Understand that collecting art is different from just buying—it is a long-term investment that takes time, proper consideration and strategy. You could start by purchasing the works of emerging artists and gradually grow your collection from there. With time and experience, you will learn about and understand the art market better. Buying from a reputable establishment such as Aureo
Gallery is another plus point as you will receive valuable advice in making an informed decision.
Ask yourself these questions when doing your research: Do you want to focus on a specific era or
movement, or a specific subject matter? Is there a specific medium that you favour? Do you want to explore different unique mediums such as gold and sculpture? How is the art market performing? What are the trends? Is there an upcoming artist who piques your interest?
Most of all, build a collection that sparks joy in you to make it unique and exceptional. If you build a collection according to popular recommendations or choices, it will not be unique. A collection that ref lects your personal style and taste can be very fulfilling. At the same time, you are collecting history and supporting hardworking artists.
What are the factors to consider when evaluating a work of art? Authenticate your purchase if the artist is alive and be extra vigilant if the artist has passed away. Aureo Gallery provides a certificate of authenticity for all our artworks. Consider the provenance of the piece as the history of its collectors does add value. Finally, appraise the condition of the work. If it requires restoration, you may need to spend more than expected.
What makes gold art worthwhile in terms of its artistic merits and investment value?
Gold has been around since the beginning of time, and is an ageold favourite as a form of currency and in various elements of art and design. Besides its luminosity and its durability, it is also a well-known hedge against stock market crashes.
“Build a collection that sparks joy in you to make it unique and exceptional”
Kim Il Tae’s unique formula and technique, which he spent years developing so that he could paint 24k gold onto canvas, is breaking traditional boundaries of art and has the potential to be passed down to future generations.
Tell us more about the other key artists that Aureo Gallery represents. Hong Kong-born Ryan
San focuses on abstract expressionism, with a touch of surrealism and pop art. His main subject is f lowers, depicted via rhythmic brushstrokes.
Yap Chun-yu, an artist based in Kuala Lumpur, paints adorable characters having fun in an imaginative and colourful world. His subjects give off a playful and cheerful vibe that most people will find easy to identify with.
The subject matter of Malaysian senior multidisciplinary artist Jeganathan Ramachandram is deeper and more thought provoking. It involves spirituality, as well as mysteries of life and the universe. It revolves around the cultural platform and wellness through purposeful installations using sound and light.
Last but not least, Korean artist Jake Lee creates neo-pop sculptures from materials that require in-depth technical knowledge, such as carbon fibre. He produces works that are aesthetically beautiful, with exquisite finishings.
What are Aureo Gallery’s plans for 2021?
We are currently bringing more talented artists on board. The team is also planning international exhibitions in cities such as Singapore, Jakarta, Taipei and Vladivostok, Russia. Some solo exhibitions may need to go online in light of the pandemic; they’re currently underway to give our artists the recognition they deserve.