Text by Irina Rusinovich
Meet Sonia, a versatile individual who wears multiple hats in the art world – art collector, art advisor, and entrepreneur. Originally from Barcelona, Spain, Sonia’s educational background in Law from the University of Barcelona laid the foundation for her artistic journey that began in 2008.
Over the years, Sonia has meticulously curated the Tryson Collection, transforming it into a vibrant showcase of contemporary art that reflects her personality and tastes. What initially started with Spanish artists has now evolved into a diverse collection encompassing Pop Surrealism, Urban Art, and Contemporary works, with a focus on emerging talents from countries like Japan, South Korea, United Kingdom, Indonesia, and her homeland Spain.
Join us as we delve into Sonia’s artistic insights, her international art scouting adventures, and her passion for propelling budding artists into the spotlight. Stay tuned for an intriguing conversation that promises to inspire art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Can you tell us about the genesis of the Tryson Collection and its evolution over the years? How has the composition of the Tryson Collection shifted from Spanish artists to predominantly featuringPop Surrealism, Urban Art, and Contemporary pieces?
Art has always captivated me deeply. From my earliest memories, I harboured dreams of becoming an artist. Yet, the twists of fate led me to pursue a law degree and eventually brought me to London, where I met myfuture husband in 1995.
In December 2006, personal circumstances necessitated my return to Barcelona for a year. A family member’s health crisis sought my support in my hometown. Amidst the stress of medical consultations, Ifound solace and distraction visiting art galleries and museums. This became my sanctuary, my means ofemotional escape, and it was during this period that my passion for art collection was ignited.
The inaugural acquisition for my collection was a piece by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa. Initially, my collection exclusively featured Spanish artists, bringing immense joy and positivity into my life as I adorned my walls with their works. This period marked the beginning of an ever-expanding collection that wouldcome to include notable names like Edgar Plans, Regina Gimenez, Claudia Valsells, and Miguel Macaya.
Upon my return to London, my fascination with Spanish art endured, compelling me to seek out galleries whenever I visited Barcelona. However, I soon discovered the vibrant and expansive art scene in London, particularly influenced by the flourishing street art movement led by figures like Banksy, Stik, Ben Eine, D Face, Dotmaster, etc. My collection began to evolve, embracing street art from the UK’s most renowned artists. My adventures took me through Nothing Hill, Hackney, Bristol, and later Penge East, documenting murals and connecting with the street art community, whom I found to be exceptionally humble andapproachable.
The year 2020 marked a significant pivot due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the closure of physical art spaces and the temporary pause in street art creation, I turned to Instagram to stay connected with artists and their work. This period saw a surge in my collection, driven by the digital reinvention of artists and galleries. My interests broadened to include Pop- Surrealism, inspired by artists like Edgar Plans or Okuda San Miguel, who shared daily creations on Instagram, introducing me to a diverse array of Asian artists.
Today, my collection boasts around 450 pieces, each narrating a segment of my life’s journey. This collection, a mosaic of memories and experiences, is irreplaceable to me, embodying the lessons learned andmoments cherished throughout my life. It’s a testament to the belief that while we should learn from our past,we must never forget it.
What does contemporary curation mean to you, and how does it reflect your personality andpreferences?
Navigating the landscape of contemporary art curation in 2024 presents a unique and thrillingchallenge, as we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture in the art world.
Today, the art scene is vibrant and diverse, bustling with a multitude of artistic movements competing forrecognition. From digital art and performance pieces to photography, abstract expressions, manga art, anime-inspired creations, pop surrealism, street art, and naïve art— each genre seeks its place in the spotlight, despite scepticism from some traditional art connoisseurs.
What sets this era apart is the unprecedented scale of our audience. The younger generation is eager to explore and embrace new art forms, often weaving them into their personal identities alongside fashion and experiential living. This spirit of the time shapes my approach to curation, which I view as crafting a bridgefrom the 21st to the 22nd century. My goal is to curate not just for the here and now but for the legacy I leave behind for my children and grandchildren.
The context in which I grew up, in the post-Franco Spanish era, contrasts with the world we inhabit today.Conversations around the dinner table have evolved, with family members of all ages engaging as equals, sharing insights and perspectives.
Art has become a unifying theme in my household. Our collection is a living, breathing entity, knownintimately by each family member. Every new addition is a shared excitement, a collective moment of growthand discovery. This practice of inclusivity and shared passion is what I believe contemporary curation should embody—a celebration of diversity, a reflection of our evolving culture, and a legacy for the future generations.
Sonia Borell
What draws you to artists from diverse locations such as Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom,Indonesia, and Spain in your scouting endeavours?
My collection is more than a gathering of art; it’s a mosaic of moments that have shaped me. Each pieceechoes a chapter of my journey: the vibrant culture I soaked up in Indonesia in the ’80s, the ancient mysteries of Egypt in the ’90s, a transformative year in Barcelona in 2007, and the gritty beauty of London’s street art. The pandemic, too, has left its mark, reshaping the art world and my place within it. As the years have rolled by, my role has evolved from a passionate art lover to an engaged full-time art collector since2018.
I’ve become a confidant and guide to artists, galleries, and fellow collectors, fully immersing myself in an art-enriched life. My social circle is a tapestry of those who create, collect, and celebrate art, and I treasure the journey with these remarkable individuals. Advising in the art world is not far from collecting when it’s drivenby heartfelt enthusiasm. My daily routine includes connecting with artists on Instagram or WhatsApp, offering them words of encouragement. Many don’t recognize the solitude that often accompanies the artist’s life— it’s a brave and solitary path, one that demands the artist’s very soul and often lacks visible rewards in our fast-paced world.
To the collectors reading this, I know you get it. You understand why I show up at openings, why I globe-trotto meet the artists, and why I advocate tirelessly for their recognition—they deserve that, a hundredfold. Reflecting on the joy that art has brought into my life, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. If I were to balance the books, I’d find myself deeply indebted to the world of art.
Could you share with us a memorable experience or discovery you’ve had while scouting for artists internationally?
Back in January 2022, Maison Ozmen, a Parisian gallery, unveiled the works of Vivi Cho, a South Korean artist who hadn’t yet made her mark on the international stage. The moment Sinan Ozmen, the owner of thegallery, shared the exhibition’s PDF catalogue with me, I was entranced. Every single piece spoke to me, and honestly, I would’ve acquired the entire collection if possible. Given the buzz around her work and my newcomer status at the gallery, Mr. Ozmen couldn’t guarantee I’d secure a piece. But I was determined not to take ’no‘ for an answer; the connection I felt to Vivi’s work was undeniable.
So, I launched into action, championing Vivi’s exhibition on Instagram tirelessly for weeks, hoping to catch both her and the gallery’s attention. Persistence paid off when Mr. Ozmen finally reached out, offering me a piece. I was ecstatic—it felt like it was meant for me. That was the beginning of my direct correspondence with Vivi via Instagram. A year and a half later, when she mentioned her upcoming exhibition at Strouk Gallery in Paris, my family and I didn’t hesitate. My husband, my youngest, and I jumped on a train to Paris. Meeting her was unforgettable; as a fervent admirer, it was a meeting I had long anticipated. We captured the moment in videos and photos, creating lasting memories. Vivi’s exhibition was a triumph, completelyenchanting the Parisian crowd. Next year, I am looking forward to visit Vivi in her studio in South Korea.Collecting art is about collecting memorable experiences.
Meeting Japanese artists Yoshitomo Nara and Takashi Murakami in Switzerland was an extraordinaryexperience that I also must include among the many memorable interactions that have deepened and enrichmy odyssey through the art world.
What inspired you to transition from being an art collector and advisor to actively promotingemerging artists on an international scale?
The transition from being an art collector and advisor to actively promoting emerging artists on an international scale was sparked by a deep-seated conviction that the next generation of talent deserves aglobal platform. The vibrant energy, the fresh perspectives, and the bold innovation that emerging artists bring to the table are essential to the lifeblood of the art world.
Every day I witness first-hand the challenges and obstacles that these artists face in gaining recognition, I felta compelling urge to leverage my network, experience, and passion to amplify their voices and showcase their work to a wider audience. It’s about creating bridges where there were none, opening doors that might otherwise remain closed, and ensuring that the art ecosystem remainsas diverse and dynamic as the world it mirrors.
Sonia Borell
How do you see the role of art collectors in supporting and shaping the careers of emerging artists inthe contemporary art scene today?
Art collectors often play a pivotal role in the art community by supporting emerging artists. Their love for the art world goes beyond just owning beautiful pieces; they’re passionate about the stories and the peoplebehind the art. Typically, these collectors are philanthropic, not just investing in art for personal enjoyment, butalso to nurture and promote new talent. They understand that their support can make a huge difference in an artist’s career, providing them with the resources and exposure needed to grow and succeed.
Collectors might also actively engage with the artists, offering mentorship and advice drawn from their own experiences. By doing so, they help to build a vibrant and supportive art community. They might sponsor exhibitions, fund residencies, or purchase works to donate to public galleries and institutions, ensuring that the art is seen and appreciated by a broader audience. In essence, art collectors are not just acquiring art; they’re investing in the future of the art world, fostering a rich cultural heritage for the next generation.
In your efforts to bring international attention to emerging artists, what message or legacy do youhope to leave for the future of the art world and aspiring collectors?
My legacy is about lighting the path for future generations. It’s not just about the art I’ve collected but the artists I’ve supported and the passion for art that I’ve shared. I’m not just collecting art; I’m helping artists togrow, to feel seen and believed in. When I mentor an up- and-coming artist, it’s a chance to pass on what I’ve learned and to keep the art community strong and connected. I like to think that one day, these artists I’ve supported will do the same for others, keeping the spirit of creativity and mentorship alive.
In building this legacy, I hope to inspire not just my children and grandchildren but also other collectors and art lovers to see the power of art as a transformative force in society. It’s about fostering a deep appreciation for art and its ability to connect us, reflect our times, and push us toward new horizons.
„Art is a bridge between people, a mirror of our world.“ – Sonia Borrell
