"An Open Account of a Collector's Adventure in Art": Unveiling the Backgrounds Behind Each Masterpiece
Art Collector Marc De Taeye Shares His Journey into the World of Art
In a captivating conversation, Belgian art collector Marc De Taeye recounts how his connection to art has evolved over the years, from a single sculpture at his workplace to a global collection that takes center stage in his life. De Taeye emphasizes that collecting art is an emotional, explorative journey, focused on discovering and finding meaning.
"My relationship with art began when I was working at Volvo Cars Gent," De Taeye reflects. The company offered employees a choice between a Roger Raveel silkscreen or a bronze sculpture by Paul Van Gysegem. I chose the sculpture. It depicted Gilgamesh, a symbol of searching for meaning, and it showed me how powerful and lasting art could be.
On the heels of this transformative experience, De Taeye found himself noticing art more and more. A few years after his initial encounter, he received a print by Jean-Michel Folon, which portrayed two hands reaching up, symbolizing trust, hope, and teamwork. Moved by the image and its resonance, De Taeye went on to acquire two engravings by Blanche Desmarets during a small exhibition. This was the turning point where he recognized that art would be a significant part of his life.
As he continued on this artistic journey, De Taeye's collection became diverse and well-rounded, including abstract, figurative, pop art, surrealism, and conceptual pieces, crafted from various materials like bronze, ceramic, resin, wood, mosaics, porcelain, and mixed media. One of his prized possessions includes a painting by Leon Engelen, featuring a farmer with a horse and foal, a piece that reminded him deeply of his grandparents.
De Taeye's collection is not only eclectic but is also infused with deeply personal pieces, such as Francis Méan's dynamic, joyful bronze sculptures. He initially received two of Méan's sculptures as a gift, later searching for additional pieces online to complete the trilogy. Today, seven works from the artist grace his windowsill, always illuminated by the light that brings them to life.
Francis Méan isn't the only artist whose work resonates with De Taeye—he is also inspired by international artists, like the documentary he saw about Burkina Faso's Salfo Dermé (Yabré). Through this exposure, his understanding of the artist's message deepened, making his sculpture feel even more meaningful.
More recently, De Taeye has found tremendous assistance in the online art platform Artsper in locating artworks that have piqued his interest. This digital resource has led him to the work of artists like Manuel Iturri Guzmán, a mosaic artist using seashells to create mesmerizing pieces.
De Taeye encourages those new to collecting to begin with one piece that speaks to them on a personal level. He emphasizes that the collecting process is not about conforming to trends or seeking validation from others, but rather, it's an exploration of emotion, beauty, and discovery that is accessible to all.
Currently, Artsper offers works by artists such as Marcus Cederberg, whose pieces include "Inflatable," "Greek Taverna," "Greek Olive Tree," and "Pink Lady." Each artwork is priced affordably, allowing those just starting their art collection to make meaningful additions to their personal spaces and embark on their own artistic journey.
Marc De Taeye's inspiring story demonstrates the transformative power of art and the potential it holds for bringing depth, connection, and personal meaning into our lives. Whether you're just starting or have been collecting for years, Artsper is here to help you discover what moves you and support you in building your very own collection.
Marc De Taeye extended his artistic journey beyond sculptures, exploring the realms of fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and travel.
His collection grew to encompass not just art, but also carefully curated pieces that reflected his evolved tastes and passions, including unique accessories, exquisite dishes, beautifully designed home decor, and captivating travel mementos.
