Michaela Banzetová's 5 Must-Read Books for Aspiring Collectors

Collecting Art for Love, Money and More by Ethan Wagner and Thea Westreich Wagner

Reorganized around ten themes presented in a question-and-answer format, art advisors Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner provide an accessible yet unparalleled perspective on the often enigmatic realm of art collecting. With a wealth of knowledge gained from their extensive interactions with collectors and contemporary art institutions, Collecting Art for Love, Money and More offers insight into the distinct and multifaceted nature of art acquisition. The authors contend that collecting art is an extraordinary endeavor, offering a range of emotional, intellectual, and social gratifications. They posit that the motivations behind acquiring artwork and forming a collection, unlike those for purchasing other commodities, can encompass various factors such as investment potential, aesthetic appeal, artistic passion, personal challenge, intellectual exploration, social recognition, exhilaration, self-esteem enhancement, or public exposure.

The Art of Collecting Art by Michael Třeštík

Renowned within the Czech Republic’s art scene, Michael Třeštík, a seasoned collector and artist, stands as an authoritative voice. In his instructive work, “The Art of Collecting Art,” Třeštík presents a comprehensive exploration of art collections and their motivations, spanning all levels of collecting. Addressing the complexity of investment, he fearlessly examines its risks and underlying assumptions. Třeštík’s book serves as an invaluable guide, empowering collectors to navigate the art world with knowledge and insight.

My name is Charles Saatchi and I am an artoholic by Charles Saatchi

Renowned for his discreet nature and tendency to shy away from public attention, Charles Saatchi is a notable figure in the art world. As an art collector, gallery owner, and the visionary behind a global advertising agency, he has garnered immense influence. In this captivating book, Saatchi presents a unique compilation of his unwavering responses to a wide array of questions posed to him by prominent journalists, critics, and curious individuals. Spanning various topics encompassing art, advertising, finance, and his personal life, Saatchi fearlessly tackles each query with unfiltered honesty, offering readers an enlightening and captivating firsthand account from one of the most significant art collectors of our era. The result is an engaging and thought-provoking exploration, providing deep insights into the mind of this enigmatic figure.

Be the Worst You Can Be by Charles Saatchi

Despite his rarity in granting interviews, Charles Saatchi emerges as an individual whose perspectives traverse a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from movies and morals to superstition and suicide. Within the captivating pages of his latest book, he generously shares his insights by addressing nearly 300 thought-provoking questions posed by both readers and journalists. What is more powerful – money or knowledge? How would you describe yourself if you did not have art in your life? How many of the seven deadly sins are you guilty of? This engrossing publication offers a valuable opportunity to explore Saatchi’s diverse viewpoints, presenting a compelling read that appeals to those in search of illuminating answers.

“Sibi, arti, amicis”. Chapters from the history of collecting in Bohemia and Moravia, 1650-1939 by Lubomír Slavíček

Lastly, a noteworthy addition to any collection is a book that delves into the rich history of collecting in the Czech Republic. This publication, adorned with abundant illustrations by the esteemed art historian Lubomír Slavíček, stands as a rare gem within the realm of collecting history. Through meticulously selected examples of aristocratic and bourgeois collections, the book unveils and evaluates the distinctive expressions of collecting and art patronage in Bohemia and Moravia from 1650 to 1939. It goes on to define their typology and elucidate the driving forces that propelled art enthusiasts and supporters towards such endeavors. Furthermore, the book explores the socio-cultural factors that facilitated the birth of collections, the mechanisms behind their formation, the diverse avenues of art trade, and most notably, the pivotal role played by private collectors and their collections in shaping and nurturing public museum institutions since the late 19th century

In conclusion, we wholeheartedly wish you an enriching reading experience, regardless of which of these captivating books you choose.For those eager to explore deeper into the art collecting and indulge in Michaela’s invaluable perspectives, we cordially invite you to join the EduArt Experience, where she is one of the lecturers, offering further insights into the world of art collecting Embrace this opportunity to expand your horizons and engage with a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the world of art.