We chatted with Kenna about her favorite works, works she would steal if possible, etc.
Art collector and social media expert Susi Kenna has been involved in the art world in multiple identities over the past 10 years.
Although Kenna is now the social media director of David Zwirner Gallery after serving as the global social media manager of Art Basel for a long time, she has also gained a steady following. On her personal Instagram, she recorded her colorful adventures during touring exhibitions around the world-and occasionally her personal collection, including Barbara Kruger, Tammy Campbell, and Tru A selection of works by Dee Benson, Alex Gardner, and Jenny Holzer, all of which are cleverly displayed around her apartment in New York City.
We recently had a conversation with Kenna to discuss her favorite works, how she likes to show them, and how she views the relationship between art and style. Please continue reading the interview below.
Provided by Susie Kenner. Photo: Max Burkhart.
What did you buy recently?
Tammi Campbell pays tribute to the square with foam wrapping paper and wrapping tape #11 (2021). I bought it on the platform, which is a new website created by David Zwirner earlier this year. One of my favorite things about this work-except for the brazen nod to the great Josef Albers-although it seems to be wrapped in ordinary old bubble film, it is actually wrapped in a wrong In the acrylic paint of the painting, it looks like a real deal, even at close range.
Which works or artists do you want to add to your collection this year?
Self-portrait of Nic Rad, if you can believe it (2016). This painting was the first time I encountered Victori+Mo (now Dinner Gallery), and it was included in Rad's 2016 exhibition "Perennial Millennial". I have never forgotten it. After our wedding this summer, my husband and I decided to make it the first work we collected. There are some very unique things about this piece, but I would rather wait until I install it later this year to know what it is.
What is the most expensive artwork you own?
"Stay and Go", Barbara Kruger's 2007 diptych, I bought it at the Frieze Art Fair in London 14 years ago. This is my pride and joy, and I like living with it very much.
Provided by Susie Kenner. Photo: Max Burkhart.
Where do you buy art most often?
The usual suspect, although I cannot say that I bought more from one source than another. I often find an artist on Instagram, and then either go to a gallery or museum to see their work, if I encounter it at an art fair, I will explore it further, or make any promises before I make time to visit the studio as much as possible .
Are there any works you regret buying?
No-well, almost, but I dodged the bullet. When I was close to completing the purchase, I saw the artist's side, allowing me to look at this work in a whole new light. From then on, I knew that this job was something I could not accept with conscience.
How do you like to show your work?
As an apartment resident in New York, of course I have to consider the size of my work and the wall space I have. But perhaps more important than logistics is what each work brings to the room. For example, in my bedroom, I keep it very small, and choose works that are calm and curious-works that relax me, but also make me constantly guess because of their depth, complexity and composition. In the living space, I plan works in areas that feel cohesive, but provide a space for individual appreciation of each work.
What works are hanging on your sofa? In your bathroom?
The sofa pendant includes a photo of Julio Cesar Gonzales, a work on paper by Carlos Charlie Perez, a small painting by GT Pellizzi, two large paintings by Daniel Lergon, a work on paper by Ryan Brown, and a photo by Andres Serrano And a set of prints by Jenny Holzer. In the bathroom, there are photos of Sophia Wallace and Fred W. McDarrah, and a huge mirror painted by Carlos Charlie Perez with red lipstick.
Provided by Susie Kenner. Photo: Max Burkhart.
What is the most unrealistic work of art you have?
Kasper Sonne's list (2006-2010). When I got this video work in 2010, it was formatted as a DVD. I haven't converted it to a format that allows me to display it now.
If given the opportunity, what works would you like to buy by yourself?
Avery singer. Oh, do I like her work! I always hope that I can go back to the time before her first museum exhibition in the Municipal Museum in 2016.
If you could steal a piece of art without being caught, what would it be?
Ruth Asawa's "Untitled" (S.237, hanging six leaves, interlocking continuous form) (circa 1958). It's now on display in David Zwirner's "Everything Is Possible" on 20th Street, organized by Helen Molesworth, and it's absolutely breathtaking and fascinating.
What does art mean to you?
Simply put, this is my whole world.
Provided by Susie Kenner. Photo: Max Burkhart.
What does style mean to you? How do you define the relationship between art and style?
In the final analysis, because a person's style changes and develops over time, it is important that you first be open to the art that moves you-but it is also important not to let it define you. Instead, let your taste and style grow with every new experience, encounter, and opportunity to absorb new information.
Personally, I started buying art at the age of 18 and took it slowly. This made everything in my collection very personal and closely related to important periods in my life over the past 19 years. However, one thing has remained the same, whether it is art, fashion or design: if I keep thinking about it, that is the sign of my investment in it, because I will not flip or sell my collection.
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