Interior Design

In Conversation With Anna Kirrage

This week we speak to Art Consultant, Anna Kirrage who has enhanced many Salvesen Graham projects with her advice.

Anna explains the importance of Art in the home, some easy mistakes to avoid and how to start a collection.

We chat with the art consultant

What do you think would surprise people about your role?

That it is not always glamourous! Of course, I do spend time looking round art galleries, art fairs and beautifully decorated homes, but I also am on building sites, deciphering architectural plans and sometimes banging nails into walls. (although I much prefer leaving that part to professional art handlers.)

Why is art so important in a home?

A house can be beautifully decorated, but there is something about empty walls that can make it feel unfinished. Art that has been lovingly chosen in a considered way brings personality and soul into a house – it is the making of a home in my opinion. Art tells the story of the owners.

What’s the biggest mistake people usually make when buying art?

I think trying to match the art too much to the interiors is a mistake. Obviously, you don’t want the art to be totally incongruous to the style of a house, but if you buy art that you truly love, then it will always fit in as a reflection of your individual style - never a bad thing!

Any tips for framing art?

Frames can make or break an artwork. Make sure you are using a trusted framing workshop – there are a few I recommend – and they can show you the different framing materials and mounting options. I would always use a UV protective glazing too on any works on paper to protect against light damage to the sensitive materials.

What’s your favourite way to find new artists?

Art fairs are my absolute favourite place to visit as you can see so much in one place, and you can go several times over multiple days. I also think Instagram is a great place to discover new art, although nothing beats seeing it in real life.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

I often work with clients for some months at a time, if not longer, and seeing them develop their eye over time and become confident in their choices is really satisfying. Also, the art is often last to be installed after a house has been decorated, and seeing how it really turns a house into a home is a lovely moment.

Do you have a favourite piece from a SG project?

It has to be the Sarah Graham magnolia that we placed in your project in Colorado.

If money’s no object, what piece would you like for your personal collection?

A Sarah Graham magnolia drawing!

What advice would you give to someone looking to start a collection?

Just get out there and start looking at art in real life. As I said before, art fairs are a great place as there is so much variety under one roof as well as a range of prices. Don’t be afraid to walk into a gallery off the street – they can seem like intimidating places but gallerists like nothing more than talking about the art they have on show.