My dear friend Rene is the next star of the coveted Talent feature. He works in the art and gallery industry and is quickly becoming a go-to consultant for celebs and collectors who want a hands-on art consultant with the eye of an interior designer. He works at Mimi Ferzt gallery in Soho as well and has an ear on the pulse of what is the most collectible and the best art for investing.
What is your unique talent?
I enjoy art installation and design. My inspiration comes from the whole process of interacting with the artwork and its environment. The creative ability to envision an artist’s dialogue within different settings is my talent. Fusing art, design and environment becomes my artistic goal.
What is a secret talent that not too many people know about?
I love boxing and I am developing a mean right hook.
What advice would you give to a first time art collector?
Acquire a piece that you will really enjoy looking at every day. This is an investment that you want to have a long term relationship with.
What do you see as trends in the art world right now?
The Russian art market is hot right now. There is also an increasing focus by collectors to acquire pieces by well established artists. High quality art is a solid acquisition in times of economic instability.
Which artists are you watching right now?
My favorite artist right now is a photographer from Russia named Slava Mogutin. He documents the under culture of New York and Berlin’s gay scene. He has great potential to become a star in the art market.
What can the Women’s Mafia make happen for you?
I love Women’s Mafia events because they are great to network and share ideas. The group is made up of so many people in different industries. I would be honored to have referrals and talk to members who have an interest in the arts.
Lastly, what is the funniest/strangest thing you ever witnessed at an art opening?
I’ve seen soo much weird Sh*t! We used to have a woman come to the gallery with her squirming, obnoxious dog and present her press pass and proceed to commandeer the bar, drinking all night. Years ago I saw an exhibition by Mauricio Cattelan where he hung a donkey from the ceiling. People’s reactions to a stuffed, donkey were priceless.
If you want to talk to Rene call him at: (212) 343-9377or visit MimiFerzt.com. He is an irreplaceable friend.