Using her passion for sourcing artworks and artists rather than sticking to a theme or a specific medium, van den Bosch shares her growing collection on IC and speaks about the benefits of not always just picking the “pretty” paintings.

“I didn’t begin to buy art with the intention of starting an art collection. I think it is an organic and ongoing process – I bought a few small pieces that I loved and after some time I realized that it could be considered as a collection. I don’t go looking for art with the underlying idea that it has to blend in with the rest and I don’t start with a theme or medium in mind. What appeals to me is art that causes friction – art that you have to look at twice and that you may still never figure out why you like it. If an artwork keeps challenging you, you know it’s the right one.

My collection includes works from Elspeth Diederix, Anne Forest, Hinke Schreuders, Navid Nuur and Ola Lanko amongst others. I don’t select work for purely aesthetic reasons or only because I like the idea, for me it always has to be a balance of both. It must be interesting to look at – either because it’s very beautiful or very ugly, or because it’s an odd image, because it grates or irritates. In short – it needs to intrigue. I will never buy a piece just because it’s a pretty picture. For me, the artwork is the end result of an entire process that went before.

Viewing and talking about art together with other art enthusiasts is a great way to expand your view. You see other people’s perspectives and can train yourself in explaining why something does or does not appeal to you. Amsterdam’s Young Collectors Circle is a platform for starting (or aspiring) collectors that provides insights into the art world and market whilst at the same time enabling you to engage and interact with other art lovers. It’s much more fun to discuss art and to develop your taste amongst like-minded people.”

If an artwork keeps challenging you, you know it’s the right one.

NADINE VAN DEN BOSCH