Sit down with Melinda, featured Estelle. Collector with an expansive collection of iconic artworks and a passionate supporter of emerging artists. Keep reading for a chat about inspiration, how to start building your own collection, how art influences daily life, and so much more.
Do you remember the moment you fell in love with art?
M: It wasn’t a moment where I fell in love with it, but I found a true appreciation as a young adult. I grew up in a middle-class family, and the arts were not a part of my environment growing up. I had a work friend here in Dallas and we started gallery hopping together; we dreamed of being able to purchase a piece of art. David Bates was a favorite—although I have yet to own a piece of his work. I’m still a huge fan, so hopefully my collection will someday include his work!
If you had to describe your collection in three words, which would you choose?
M: Eclectic, large (for a person living in a small house), and textured (I’m drawn to multi-media works and love texture).
How has your approach to collecting changed over the years?
M: My collection has become much more personal these days. By personal, I really mean by how it makes me feel—it conjures an old memory, tells a great story, and feels joyful and fun.
What’s your top piece of advice for someone wanting to begin their art-collecting journey?
M: Start small and affordable for your budget. There are so many great events and showings for emerging artists, so find what resonates with you in your range.
What inspires you when you discover a new artwork—emotion, technique, backstory?
M: Certainly, emotion as the art must speak to me. My home is my sanctuary, and art provides such warmth and beauty within it.
Have you faced any unexpected hurdles or surprises in building your collection?
M: Yes, buying too much—especially from artists I favor.
Which piece in your collection holds the most memorable story for you?
M: For me, it is the first piece I purchased. It was a sizable investment for me at the time, and very joyful. I saw the fantastic “White Bird” by Kathleen Markowitz featured in the home of the owner of Quirk Gallery in Virginia. It was also spiritual to me as a Christian. I found the artist, and she is a great spirit, so I bought a similar piece from her series.
How do you maintain and care for your artworks, especially those with unique histories?
M: I try to install them all, but I do store some. I have three pieces from a fantastic artist — and all-around fantastic person—in Canada, Amy Montgomery. I have yet to install the pieces, but they are a treasure. Three separate portraits of young girls enjoying summer activities. Each one is a warm and wonderful reminder of the joy and innocence of youth. Someday, I will find the perfect place for those beauties.
What role does art play in your daily life? Does it influence your routine or mindset?
M: Art plays a huge role in daily life—it’s all over my home. As a homebody, my home is a very important place to me. It’s been a bucket list item to collect and own the pieces I have. I can get lost just looking into them.
