In this final episode of season two, Refiloe Mpakanyane speaks to Carla and Pieter Schulting, Dutch collectors whose journey into contemporary African art has grown into a 350+ artwork collection representing all 54 countries on the continent.
They share how one encounter with an Ethiopian artist sparked an unexpected pivot in their collecting life, eventually leading to Africa Supernova, the blockbuster exhibition at Kunsthal KAdE that drew tens of thousands of visitors and helped introduce new audiences to contemporary African art.
At various points in the conversation, Carla and Pieter explore their mission to share the Schulting Art Collection with the world; the important role that art plays in their lives; as well as how they nurture relationships with the artists whose works are part of their collection.
Carla and Pieter are earnest and inspiring when talking about the custodial role they play in looking after their collection for “future generations”.
Highlights Include:
· How curiosity became a mission to amplify African artists globally
· The realities of caring for and living with a large art collection
· Why supporting young, emerging artists matters
· The relationships they build with artists – and how they offer guidance
· How Instagram unexpectedly expanded the visibility of their collection
· What it means to act as patrons, not just collectors
Referenced exhibitions & institutions:
· Africa Supernova
· Kunsthal KAdE
· Afriart Gallery
· BMW Art Magazine
· Azu Nwagbogu
· Agnes Wanguru
Chapter 4 (Insights from the Collectors) spans episodes 9-11 of Season 2 of the Latitudes Podcast. It takes a closer look at art collecting as both a cultural and financial practice. Featuring collectors, gallerists, and market experts, this chapter explores the nuances of taste, market influence, and the evolving role of collectors.
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Supported by Business and Arts South Africa (BASA)
Co-curated by Art School Africa
Hosted by Refiloe Mpakanyane
