What do art lovers like? Where do they buy their art and, most importantly, what do they buy? Every Monday an enthusiast tells about his love for art in this section. This week Hubert Kalkman (34), owner of KALKMAN | Art Gallery & Record Store in Antwerp and Maastricht.
What does art mean to you?
I am involved in visual arts and music every day. The kick when a work of art touches me: that's what I do it for. My collecting urge started in seventh grade. In terms of art, I focus on street art or urban art and contemporary pop art. Having said that, I look at everything.
Were you exposed to art while growing up?
MMy grandfather used to take us to all kinds of museums and had quite a collection of art at home. As a child you didn't always feel like going to yet another museum, but afterwards I am grateful to him for that.
Where do you read about the latest developments in the art world?
For me, the art world primarily exists online. Through Instagram and Artsy I receive a lot of information and I 'discover' new artists and works.
Where do you prefer to look at art?
If I had the time, I'd spend my days in galleries. I‘ll admit that I usually view art online: the art world is always within reach on my smartphone.
How often do you buy art each year?
I buy new art every week, whether this is editioned print or a unique work doesn't matter to me. I love the craftsmanship behind the production of a print run. We will be doing a solo exhibition with Lindert Steegen in September, which will also focus strongly on his technique.
Where do you do your buying: in a gallery, at an art fair, at an auction or online?
I tend to make a first purchase online, in the web shop of a gallery or at auction. Still, it is best to buy from a gallery. A highbrow fair like TEFAF should not deter you from buying art. You can also find gems here for, at least for me, an affordable price.
Is it important that you and your partner always agree on a purchase?
My wife rather comments on the speed with which I proceed with a purchase. I'm lucky that she often agrees that it's a good piece. If she really doesn't like it, she always says, "Please hang that in the shop."
Do you have a special relationship with any one gallery?
Through my purchases of Hayden Kays and Nina Mae Fowler I have a special relationship with Cob Gallery in London. Looking closer to home, I'm always drawn to the artists of Jaski Gallery in Amsterdam. If I could, I would attend every opening.
If you had an unlimited budget, whose work would you buy?
One of Damien Hirst’s 'Spot Paintings’ from the early days of that series seems wonderful to me.
Who are your favourite artists?
Arno Beck, from Bonn. I first saw his drawings of landscapes, made with a typewriter, on Instagram in 2016. I should have bought one then.
A big favourite of mine are Gilbert & George, especially their earlier work. I admire how they structure their day and go through life as living artists/images.
I also have a mixed media work and bronze statuette by Atelier Les Deux Garcons. I am also fascinated by their taxidermy images.
See the Website / Instagram of KALKMAN | Art Gallery & Instagram of Hubert Kalkman