Collecting Art at Home and Abroad

In this must-attend session, industry experts will discuss the complexities of both the domestic and international art scene. Learn how to make informed collecting decisions, discover new artists, and expand your passion for art on an international scale. Whether you’re an experienced collector or simply art-curious, gain valuable insights into broadening your outlook and how to build a dynamic and diverse art collection.

Andrew Smith | Moderator
Andrew Jensen | Speaker
Kym Elphinstone | Speaker
Mary Vavasour | Speaker

Andrew Jensen is the owner and co-director of Fox Jensen (Sydney) and Fox Jensen McCrory (Auckland), established in 1988. The galleries have become a leading international platform in Australasia, presenting top Australian, New Zealand, and international artists. Jensen has published numerous monographs and essays on artists like Tomislav Nikolic, Judith Wright, and Winston Roeth. Through JAWPRESS, he has released over 30 catalogues. He believes art fairs play a crucial role in supporting artists and galleries in the global art market.

Kym Elphinstone is an arts advisor and advocate working within Australia and globally. As the founder of Australia’s leading cultural communications agency, Articulate, Kym has championed the work of thousands of artists, advising on major museum and commercial gallery exhibitions as well as public art projects, biennales and festivals. Her clients include the Biennale of Sydney, National Gallery of Victoria, National Gallery of Australia, MONA and Australia’s Pavilion at the Venice Biennale. Prior to launching Articulate in 2009, Kym worked at the MCA Australia in Sydney; in New York at the New Museum; and in London for M&C Saatchi’s specialist arts division. A former lawyer, Kym is currently a Board Director of emerging art space Firstdraft and sits on the Advisory Council for Australia’s largest art fair Sydney Contemporary. This year, she published her first book with Thames & Hudson titled Collecting: Living with Art.

Mary Vavasour is an Auckland-based Art Advisor with over 25 years of experience, offering consultancy services to private and corporate collectors. Her background includes roles as Curator, Director of a public gallery, and Director of two commercial galleries. Mary’s approach combines art-historical knowledge with market awareness. She ensures careful research and market verification for acquisitions, while maintaining professional relationships. With access to international works and local expertise, Mary provides transparent, tailored services that align with clients’ collecting goals.

Let’s Talk Art presented by Aon, brings together 30 artists, curators, designers, and collectors for nine compelling talks over three days.

Entry to Let’s Talk Art is on a first come, first serve basis. There is no RSVP.

A valid ticket to the Aotearoa Art Fair 2025 is required for entry to this talk.