Art is becoming more attractive as an asset class due to its increasing transparency as a result of widely available research and information. The seventh edition of Collector’s Desk organized by ARTRA Magazine and Saskia Fernando Gallery in partnership with Standard Chartered Bank was held on the 15th of February 2019 at the Standard Chartered Priority Banking Centre, Colombo 7. This edition was critical in shedding light on art investment as accessible and enjoyable to art collectors.

The esteemed guest speaker, Sonal Singh, Director of Christie’s India together with Saskia Fernando, Gallerist of Saskia Fernando Gallery and Azara Jaleel, Editor of ARTRA Magazine explored the critical factors collectors should consider when investing in art. “Art is personal, so the most important thing is to understand your interest and know the market you are in to distinguish price points” stated Sonal. Art invariably has the potential to be an investment as well as an  asset, and the key to investing in the right asset is to research and gain insights from credible literary sources and art professionals to make an informed decision. Sonal studied design at Central Saint Martin’s College, and then Modern and Contemporary Art at Christie’s Education, before completing a Master’s degree in Art Business with Sotheby’s Institute of Art. Initiating a thought provoking discourse, Sonal revealed the inception of Christie’s and its legacy in fostering the art scene. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, the auction house has since conducted prestigious and celebrated auctions over the course of more than two centuries and grown into an international organization with 10 auction locations and 57 offices in 32 countries.

ARTRA is Sri Lanka’s Art Magazine exploring curated content on Sri Lanka’s visual art, performance art, applied art and written art. Launched in 2012, ARTRA Magazine is a compact monthly art read providing a comprehensive understanding on Sri Lankan artists, art events, monthly art calendars and the Sri Lankan design landscape. In sum, all you need to know about art in Sri Lanka.

Click below to read the full art review.