John Autard took a few minutes to share some of his favorite art fromStateoftheArt . Read his comments and get a first hand peek at how his design
mind works.
As a style and design guru, what do you think makes art compelling in a room?Art draws focus and sets the mood for a room.
When you redesign a room, what role does artwork play?Very often a room is designed around a piece of artwork or artwork is sought to compliment an existing scheme.
If you could have any piece of art StateoftheArt, regardless of price or size, what would it be and why?Red Baboon In The Protea Tree by Gary Frier. I love art relating to monkeys and baboons and have a fair collection including two of Gary Frier's works already. I particularly enjoy the baboon in amongst the proteas as it relates to the Cape. There is a sense of naughtiness in the baboons eyes and you wonder what he is about to do!! The scale of the work is good.
What general misconceptions do you run into regarding buying art?Galleries far too often feel that decorators should be buying art for their clients but unless it is for a holiday home I would never enforce my taste on anyone.
What’s hanging on your walls at home? My own collection of art is varied and ranges from prints, watercolours, acrylics and oils. The subject matter is varied too although I have tried to keep themes relating to specific rooms. I also have work done by myself.
It’s not long until Christmas - what's on the top of your holiday wish list this year?To have some time off just to relax and do absolutely nothing!
What is your favourite holiday indulgence or 'guilty pleasure'Cooking up extravagant meals at a fraction of what they would cost in a restaurant and sharing with friends.
What are some things you like to do to your home or apartment to make it feel like the holidays?I do enjoy setting up a Christmas tree and decorations! And the fridge and cookie jar must be full!
Are you going anywhere special this holiday season? If so, where?I want to do things in and around Cape Town – I love being a tourist here!
What would our readers be surprised to know about you?That I am basically a family man at heart with good old fashioned values!
