Meet the Collector: Prue Duffy

Ahead of Affordable Art Fair Sydney this June, we sat down with art collector Prue Duffy to discuss the art of collecting art, explore her own stunning collection and consider how to build your own. Are you a first time buyer? Read on for her helpful advice for arty first timers!

Tell us a little about yourself! What is your experience with the Affordable Art Fair?

I love the Affordable Art Fair! It’s always so fun and inspiring. I first experienced the Affordable Art Fair while living in Hong Kong. The fairs always brought a wonderful mix of international and local galleries to Hong Kong and did it in a way that attracted collectors, families and those new to art buying. 

Upon returning to Australia I took up the role of Business Development Manager for Affordable Art Fair, launching the successful 2019 Melbourne fair. This was a wonderful experience getting closer to the local galleries and researching how the arts culture had changed over the decade I had lived in Asia. It was certainly clear Melbouriaans and Sydney-siders were excited for Affordable Art to come down under! 

What inspires you to buy art?

Buying art always feels like such a special process. I really go on gut feeling. I don’t care if it matches my sofa or not. It’s always about the artwork making me feel happy or intrigued to look at it over and over again.  

What styles or mediums are you most attracted to?

That’s a hard question!! The artists use of colour and line is important to me. Mediums are not as important but it interests me when I get to know the work and the artist’s process. 

What was the first piece of art you bought from Affordable Art Fair?

How long have you been building your collection for?

I have been building my collection slowly. I don’t rush to buy art and don’t feel pressure to decorate walls for the sake of it. I’d prefer to have a blank wall for a while until I see a work I love and then I’ll make it work in my home. 

I am hoping to add an indigenous piece to my collection so I am looking forward to seeing the collection available at Affordable Art Fair Sydney.

What is your process when considering a new art purchase at the Affordable Art Fair?

I trust my instincts and my eye for artworks, but before purchasing I like to take a photograph of the artwork and take a few minutes to consider the piece, do a few laps of the hall and then usually end up  deciding over a coffee in the café. Often I have a few that have caught my eye so it is probably a decision on which I will pick! 

Do you purchase an artwork knowing where you will hang it – or do you decide after taking it home?

I decide where to put an artwork after I bring it home, I like to be able to test it in the lighting, colour, and space before I hang it up. Curating your collection at home is an invigorating and dynamic process! And I move things around a lot! 

What financial advice do you have for people looking to buy an artwork?

Know your budget, and know the value that art holds in your life as a long-term investment. If you ensure to purchase a piece that you feel a strong connection with, it has the power to impact on your mood and stay with you in your home for the rest of your life. Finally, ask the gallery if they have any instalment plans that allow for you to pay for your artwork in monthly instalments. 

What advice would you give to someone buying art for the first time?

Take your time as there’s lots to consider during the exciting process of buying your first artwork! A small list of things to consider include where you will put the piece at home, is the size ideal for your home (the gallery may have other works by the same artist in various sizes) and if you feel an emotional connection to the artwork. Don’t be afraid to ask the gallery lots of questions (they love talking about the artist and artwork), learning more about the artist might make the piece feel even more special to you.

Are you looking for the next piece of your collection? If yes, what do you wish to see in your next piece?

I’m not drawn to only one particular artistic style, my collection is quite diverse with my appreciation for fine technique and artworks with a vibrant colour palette bringing the pieces together. I hope to find the next piece of my collection at the upcoming Affordable Art Fair Sydney!

Thanks to Prue for taking the time to talk to us – the perfect inspiration to get started with your own collection! Discover more affordable, stunning artists and artwork at our upcoming fair in Sydney, 2 – 5 June 2022.

Main image: Prue at Affordable Art Fair Melbourne in 2019