A Private View with Jerwood Collection
"I don't think you can underestimate the value in looking very carefully, and as a rule, always buy what you love."
For our next instalment of A Private View with.., we asked Director of Jerwood, Lara Wardle, to share her joy in collecting and curating for Jerwood Collection, a privately-owned collection of twentieth and twenty-first century British art which is open to the public.
Jerwood is a family of philanthropic organisations dedicated to supporting the arts in the UK which is directed by Lara. With over 25 years' experience in the field of British art, she has acquired several works from Cristea Roberts Gallery for the organisation, which include those by Patrick Caulfield, Ian Davenport, Ben Nicholson, Vicken Parsons, Yinka Shonibare CBE, Barbara Walker, and Clare Woods. She has selected several of her favourite works below and discusses how each artist inspires her, whilst also giving advice on how to collect art.
Can you begin by telling us about Jerwood Collection and your role?
Jerwood Collection's primary focus is to collect and display works that will enhance people's enjoyment and understanding of twentieth- and twenty-first century art, with the emphasis very much on enjoyment. My role is focused on curating and collecting and I love hunting out the perfect work of art to join the collection; however, I'm happiest in a library, ideally the V&A National Art Library, doing the behind-the-scenes research.
You have acquired paintings and drawings from Cristea Roberts Gallery, as well as several prints. What is appeal of collecting the medium of prints?
I find collecting prints completely fascinating and, if I am allowed to say it, it appeals to my nerdy side, as it can be academic. At home I have a few prints and, for me personally, it is also a brilliant way of being able to acquire works of art by artists whose paintings might be out of reach financially.
Is it important for you to meet the artist behind the work?
Good question, to which I don't think there is a straightforward answer. Sometimes it feels important to meet the artist: it can give you an insight into their work and direction of travel; but, on other occasions, it is best to take the work on its own merits and not let your personal impression of someone get in the way of your gut reaction.
How have the type of works you collect for Jerwood changed over the years?
During the last twenty-five years my interests have become much broader and I now have a greater knowledge of contemporary art. Collecting art, particularly for a collection on public display, has had to become more thoughtful, nuanced and relevant.
What is your advice for collecting art?
There's a brilliant Peggy Guggenheim quote: 'I took advice from none but the best. I listened, how I listened! That's how I finally became my own expert'. As well as listening to people with expertise, I don't think you can underestimate the value in looking very carefully, and as a rule, always buy what you love.
Please view works selected by Lara below and contact sales@cristearoberts.com if you would like to receive prices, organise a viewing at the gallery or virtually, or require any further information.
