The Social-Savvy Art Advisor Sharing Her Knowledge With Thousands

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illa gaunt

PHOTO: LEAH WILSON

Illa Gaunt brings a masters in art history and a post-graduate diploma in modern and contemporary art from Christie’s Education in London to her Houston-based boutique advisory. Keen to share her passions, she transformed her Instagram account into a platform for accessible arts education.


It's a thrilling time of discovery in the art world. Luxe checks in with experts across the industry who are carving inroads for creatives and collectors. Meet Stef Halmos, Gardy St. Fleur, Chelsea Neman Nassib, Illa Gaunt, Humberto Moro and more.


 

Making headlines: The art world is bonkers right now with long waiting lists for new works, sold-out shows and record-breaking auction prices. See: Louise Bourgeois’ Spider sold for $40 million at Art Basel and Andy Warhol’s Marilyn sold last May for $195 million, breaking auction record for an American artist.

Looking forward: Amanda Baldwin’s vibrant landscapes are on my radar. I’m excited about her upcoming show at Hesse Flatow in New York City.

Arts destination: Berlin has amazing contemporary galleries like Soy Capitán and Wentrup.

Sunday school: In 2019, I began presenting Sunday art history lessons on Instagram Live and developed a sizable following during the pandemic. Topics have ranged from art movements like Dada, to the intellectual explosion that took place at Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center, to deeper dives into artists like Ruth Asawa.

Treasure trove: I find new talent through critical reviews and art fairs like NADA Miami that focus on younger galleries and emerging artists.

Collector’s mantra: Buy what you love. The intrigue and attraction should feel instinctual.