Console ‘Bellatrix’ (2015) by OAK reflected in KAMAL AOUN’S spectacular mirror sculpture ‘Hoop’ (2015). (2m x 2m).
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Galerie Patrick Fourtin is one of the most beautiful galleries in Paris, situated in the stunning Palais Royal area. Patrick always has an inspiring mix of historical 20th century pieces with cutting edge contemporary works – always elegant with supreme craftsmanship. We love his eye!
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Commode ‘Colette’ (1922) by JACQUES-EMILE RUHLMANN (Paris 1879 – 1933)
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WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO ENTER INTO THE WORLD OF DECORATIVE ART AND OPEN YOUR GALLERY?
I have always been interested in this field, well before its current success, before the internet made it more widely accessible and when 20th century pieces were only of interest to a few amateur collectors (who have incidentally become the reference for today’s collectors!). When I started out I had a stand at Marché Paul Bert at Les Puces and right from the start I ran it like a gallery with a rigorous selection process.
I opened this gallery 20 years ago so that I could be based in Paris itself and develop my field. I am very lucky to be situated right in the centre of Paris in a truly wonderful and unique spot.
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Tables modulable ‘Bouts de canapé’ (2015) by MAJD BAZERJI (2015). H60 x W60 x L40cm. ~~
YOU MIX CONTEMPORARY PIECES WITH HISTORICAL WORKS IN YOUR GALLERY (FOR EXAMPLE, JACQUES EMILE RUHLMANN WITH WOUTER HOSTE AND KAMAL AQUN). WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN THE PIECES YOU CHOOSE TO EXHIBIT?
I like to have important older pieces which cohabit in a timeless way with the works of contemporary artists.
I look for quality and beauty; for exceptional and unique pieces with an element of surprise and a strong identity whether they are historic or contemporary works.
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Ceramic lamp ‘Essential Surface7’ (2015) by WOUTER HOSTE.
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WHAT INSPIRES YOU? ARE THERE AREAS OF DESIGNS OR DESIGNERS WHO YOU FEEL ARE OVERLOOKED NOW?
I believe in and champion the work of many unknown artists whose early talent points to exciting future work. Some of these artists with whom I have worked are now ‘renowned’ today (recipients of the ‘Prix de l’intelligence de la main de la foundation Bettencourt) and their work is included in several important collections. I really function with my heart and with the opportunities I see. Obviously this approach is more difficult and takes more time than if I sold only ‘bluechip’ work (which I admire enormously of course!), but my clients are very faithful to me.
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Low table ‘Scorpion’ by Jacques Duval Brasseur (1970) H60cm x W90cm.
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WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NEW COLLECTOR? WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE IMPORTANT POINTS TO CONSIDER?
It makes me sad to see so many people collecting purely from a speculative standpoint, as often in the contemporary art market. The advice I can give is to have confidence in yourself and to buy the pieces that you love – whatever the price! You must ‘dare’ in order to collect happily – and if you follow that advice you will never go wrong.
View from the gallery
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Collecting Design Begins in Paris. Come Find your Inspiration!
