The work of an art consultant: combining intuition with background information.

Work ethic

Choosing Artwork

Meishi+

What criteria do you use when interacting with works of art or people?

Sidney LU

When I choose a piece of art, my first priority is whether I intuitively like it from the bottom of my heart. After that, I analyze the story and value it holds and decide whether to add it to my collection. It's the same with relationships with people; I first look at whether I can trust them and enjoy spending time with them. No matter how valuable something is, I won't choose something I don't truly love. These feelings naturally influence my everyday decisions.

origin

The original encounter

Meishi+

Please tell me about the origins that led to your current criteria for judgment and values.

Sidney LU

My experience studying at an art university in the United States after graduating from high school is a major starting point for me. While being exposed to art and history from all over the world, I was particularly drawn to African tribal art and primitive art. I feel that these expressions, which symbolize the awakening of human selfhood, are the origin of crafts and creative work, and also provide clues to exploring the essence of modern society. Regardless of differences in rarity, I naturally developed the habit of evaluating honest expressions born from everyday life without preconceived notions.

turning point

Shift in interest

Meishi+

Have there been any experiences in your life so far that have caused a change in your way of thinking or your interests?

Sidney LU

Previously, I had a wide-ranging collection, including furniture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, Miao textiles, Joseon dynasty white porcelain, British industrial parts, and antique furniture from Southeast Asia. However, the COVID-19 pandemic prevented me from traveling abroad, and local antique markets were cancelled, leading me to re-examine contemporary art in the Asian region where I live. I've developed a particularly strong interest in photographic works by artists from my region, and the scope and perspective of my collection are gradually changing. This change in environment has broadened my interests and judgment.

life

everyday time

Meishi+

What kind of time do you cherish during your days off or breaks at work?

Sidney LU

I find the most relaxing time to chat casually with fellow collectors and art consultants over wine at secluded, hidden restaurants. At home, I also cherish the time I spend with my wife, enjoying Kung Fu tea using Chinese and Taiwanese tea leaves and our favorite teaware. Spending time in these natural settings and organizing my thoughts is essential for me.

future

Future writers

Meishi+

What kinds of people or themes would you like to be involved with in the future?

Sidney LU

In recent years, I have developed a strong interest in photographic works and have collected works by historical artists. Going forward, I would like to carefully appreciate the works of young Asian artists from Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and other regions, and discover artists and works that can stand the test of time. Through collecting and appreciating art, I hope to quietly support the future art scene.