Pip S.

Tell us about yourself and the art you are interested in.

I work in the arts as the Commerce and Creative Manager at Craft Victoria. I’m privileged to be around many artists through Craft and the opportunity to see fresh and exciting work are a daily occurrence. It’s a different feeling though, when you know you need to own it – it’s an immediate thrill that just doesn’t fade.



I’m primarily interested in collecting sculptural works – textile-based works are particularly hard to resist. I’m really attracted to the tactility and love the ability of sculptural works to alter how you feel at home.



When we bought our first home we bought a huge string shelf unit, which is the centrepiece of our living space. It’s constantly changing with each new work added bringing a new dynamic. I grew up surrounded by art – it was part of the fabric of our home – it feels good to create the same experience for my son.

"I love Art Money because I can indulge myself when that particular thrill hits."

Tell us about the artworks you have purchased with Art Money and how you came to discover them.

My most recent acquisition is a 9m terracotta chain, hand built by Melbourne artist Pip Byrne. We recently installed a small show with her at Craft, and it was an immediate yes – before we had finished installing it, I knew it would come home with me. I have no idea where we will put it!

Craft's strong connections in the artistic community give us an edge in identifying artistic talents at the outset of their careers. As someone who is passionate about the arts, I find it incredibly stimulating to work in such a dynamic environment. Personally, I'm always on the lookout for artists who pique my interest, like Makiko Ryujin. Makiko had her first solo exhibition at Craft and is doing incredible work for Sophie Gannon Gallery in Melbourne. I’m thrilled to own a large, beautiful bowl I know I will love forever.

Being from New Zealand, I always keep an eye on the galleries there, like Laree Payne Gallery – I think Laree has a great eye. I purchased a small painting by one of my favourite Australian painters, Lottie Consalvo, it sits near a really large work of hers we have on loan from family. I love the small one even more though, knowing it’s mine.

Next on the list is a work by Danielle Thiris – it is such a privilege to have an intimate knowledge of her highly considered practise. We are showing her work at the Melbourne Design Fair (18 - 21 May 2023) along with Pip Byrne, Caro Pattle and Camille Laddawan – very tempting!

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Why do you choose to buy with Art Money?

I love Art Money because I can indulge myself when that particular thrill hits, and keep adding to our collection regularly. It helps knowing how much every acquisition helps an artist to stay in their studio – at work we see the direct impact of sales on an artist’s ability to focus on their practise. Studio time is not always a given, and often other jobs are prioritised to keep the bills paid. I love knowing that I can directly support them beyond the work we do supporting artists at Craft Victoria.

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Photography by Brigitte Buccianti.