Richard Ekstract

Richard Ekstract has been collecting contemporary art for over 40 years. “The best way to understand contemporary art is to look,” says the noted collector who served as a board member of New Museum of Contemporary Art for 17 years. “Much of my collecting was influenced by New Museum founder, Marcia Tucker.” He adds, “I wish I could keep all the art I own, but art needs to be seen, not stored.” Early works he bought have recently soared at auction and private sales.

Jill Gerstenblatt

Jill Gerstenblatt has been collecting art since 1995. Over the years her tastes have evolved from prints to unique works, from a focus on collecting primarily photography to now collecting painting and light boxes as well. Jill holds a MA in Post War and Contemporary Art from Sotheby’s Institute in London and a BA from The University of Michigan in Art History. She ran Gallery 10g out of her 2 bedroom apt from 2005-2009 where she represented emerging artists right out of grad school. Her goal was to help young professionals build their art collections. Now she is an art advisor and helps individuals decorate their homes and offices with contemporary art. Check out her Instagram account for daily posts that feature important artists and young artists to watch. @jgartadvisory

 

Lillian Heidenberg

Lillian Heidenberg is one of the leading independent art dealers in New York. She is an important figure in the art world whose special vision helps integrate cutting edge contemporary art as well as modern masterpieces into any background. As a member of the prestigious Art Dealers’ Association of America, she is also a world renowned expert on Henry Moore and Lynn Chadwick among other international artists. She has advised and consulted with many important private collectors, museums and institutions around the world. Several years ago, her gallery moved from its 57th street location to a private space designed to showcase art within the intimate context of an art deco inspired residence. Lillian works with some of the most important Asian contemporary artists.

 

Kathryn Markel

Kathryn Markel opened her art gallery, Kathryn Markel Fine Arts, in 1975. As a dealer Kathryn has spent her career trying to make art accessible to the regular person, trying to explain why a painter paints what she does, trying to sell art that is reasonably priced, and trying to present art as a joy rather than an obscure, intellectual language that speaks only to an elite.

 

Douglas F. Maxwell

Douglas F. Maxwell is a contemporary art advisor, consultant, and professor (NYU). He has spent decades navigating the world of galleries, museums, international art fairs, and exhibitions. His blog max-art.tumblr.com shares his personal insights into the contemporary art scene.