Art advisor Jessica Tatievski. Photographer: Lilika Strezoska.
Traveling the world to explore artworks, visiting art fairs and museums, and engaging with artists is the world of Jessica Tatievski, an international art advisor. Her keen eye and expertise help art collectors navigate the complexities of the art market, ensuring their collections reflect both personal aesthetics and broader cultural narratives.
Passionate about her work, Jessica considers it a privilege to enrich the collections of her clients, and this is only the beginning for her and her company, Neue Projects. We sat with Jessica to discuss her role and insights into the art world.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam (HBZVN): What does it mean to be an art advisor?
JESSICA TATIEVSKI: As an art advisor, I cultivate close relationships with individuals looking to build meaningful and personal art collections. I aim to curate unique collections that reflect my clients’ personalities and engage with global cultural discourses. Understanding my clients on a fundamental level is crucial to guiding them through the complexities of the art market while continually expanding my expertise within the arts.
HBZVN: For someone new to collecting, what would be your recommendation?
JESSICA TATIEVSKI: Observation is key at the beginning. I encourage new collectors to immerse themselves in art by visiting museums, galleries, and art fairs. These activities help develop your intuitive understanding of what resonates with you and does not, leading to a deeper understanding of who you are. Equally important is studying the history of art, and there are excellent resources such as books that provide foundational knowledge, which, when combined with your active immersion, enriches one’s collecting journey.
Once you become an active participant in the art world and gain confidence, building relationships with galleries that represent artists you admire is essential. Establishing a budget is also beneficial, as it helps determine which galleries and artists are within reach. Engaging in conversations with dealers, artists, and fellow collectors fosters deeper insights and opens doors to guidance. Collecting is a deeply personal journey, and I love hearing how and why collectors started collecting.
HBZVN: What are the most important factors you consider when selecting an artwork for clients?
JESSICA TATIEVSKI: Every selection begins with understanding the client’s visual language and personal interests. From there, I consider several factors when I propose a work: the coherence of the artwork within their collection, the quality of the work, its historical significance and provenance, and the dialogue the artist is engaging in. Authentication and changing market trends also play a significant role in decision-making.
Additionally, I dedicate a portion of my time to researching market developments and discourses and discovering emerging artists to ensure my clients can access the most compelling opportunities that fit their criteria. I always leave room for discovery as I challenge my clients and myself to see beyond the familiar and embrace new perspectives.
HBZVN: How do you prepare to advise your clients?
JESSICA TATIEVSKI: Preparation is key, and while my approach is tailored to each client’s thesis, my process remains rigorous. I spend most of my time engaging with art – whether that means visiting museums, foundations, galleries, or artists’ studios. I work closely with galleries and gain in-depth insights into their exhibitions and artists by engaging in conversations with their sales team, which continually informs my advisory practice. When I am not looking at art, I conduct research, review exhibition previews, answer emails and inquiries, or curate dossiers for my clients. Thorough preparation ensures the staying power and significance of every collection I shape.
HBZVN: What are some of the activities you do with your clients?
JESSICA TATIEVSKI: I enjoy creating immersive experiences that deepen my clients’ engagement with art. Visiting art fairs together is particularly insightful as it allows me to observe their instincts and reactions to the variety of art we see. These conversations are invaluable as they assist in refining the collecting direction and also expand my own perspectives.
Introducing my clients to galleries and artists is another integral part of my work. When a client decides to acquire a piece, I guide and manage all aspects of the transaction, from the sale to taxes, customs, shipping, insurance, and display. The most rewarding moment is seeing a piece installed in its new home, and it is extraordinary to witness the connection between the artwork and the collector.
HBZVN: Who do you currently have on your radar for your clients?
JESSICA TATIEVSKI: Each client’s taste differs, so my focus spans various movements and artists. One of my collectors is passionate about artists with pop-cultural influences, while another is drawn to abstract works from the 20th century. Some artists on my clients’ wishlists include Louise Bourgeois, Noah Davis, and Karen Kilimnik. Finding the right piece requires patience, but the reward is always worthwhile.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
All photos taken by Lilika Strezoska
