Journalism of Courage
Art enthusiast Durva Gandhi learned early in life that the business of art was just as volatile and unpredictable as any other investment option. Gandhi,who has been an avid art collector,publisher,aesthetic consultant and curator for the last 14 years,was in the city to promote her book titled Secrets of the Art Millionaires,which she says is a step-by-step guide for anyone who wants to buy art.
It all started when I was studying at Sophias (Sophia College For Women) in Mumbai, recalled Gandhi as she took her place beside Monika Trivedi,the host for the evening at Phoenix Market City. Gandhi,looking chic in a purple silk top and a slick skirt,shared that it was while working on a project for the National Gallery of Modern Art in Mumbai,that she developed a taste and an eye for art.
Most of the time,this knowledge is not accessible unless youre part of a privileged art auction house, says Gandhi,introducing us to her book. I just wanted to bring that information out for everybody to make use of, she said,adding that I want to help people become wealthy through art. The glossy coffee table book,priced at Rs 977,draws from Gandhis own experiences with the art world as well as those of her friends and contemporaries.
But she says that the tips in her books are applicable to any art market in the city and simply underline the principles of success that would work anywhere. It is not restricted to just advice for buyers,collectors,curators and gallery owners,but also has a section for artists on how to manage their resources and market themselves, she says.
Gandhi also adds that one must treat the art market as one would treat any other investment option. It is not just about brand-names anymore. Of course there is risk involved. But we have to understand which way the market is going since the value of art is soaring so high,and were dealing in lakhs and crores, she says.
