From global markets to individual makers, the art world can be an overwhelming place to navigate. This week, we asked seven designers—Elliot Barratt, Cate Gutter, Casey Hill, Maria Khouri, Sarah Magness, Ian Parker and Lauren Sullivan—to share where they find those perfect pieces for their clients.
Across the Map
“Sourcing art has been one of the most challenging but rewarding aspects of design. Art is deeply personal, and what resonates with one client may completely miss the mark for another. Our team collects from everywhere: flea markets, local makers, high-end galleries. We love it all. Some of our favorite go-to sources include Meyer Vogl, George Gallery and Miller Gallery in Charleston; Shain Gallery here in Charlotte; and the online platform Well + Wonder. And we never leave Round Top or High Point without discovering something unexpected. I grew up surrounded by artists—my sister is a professional painter, and both my mother and grandmother are incredibly talented, so our walls were always filled with collected treasures. That early exposure gave me a deep appreciation for the many styles, stories and hands behind each piece. Now, as I raise a little artist of my own, I’m constantly reminded that great art can come from anyone, anywhere.” —Cate Gutter, CWG Design, Charlotte
Straight to the Source
“I enjoy sourcing art through my artist friends. While galleries are the obvious route, I find real inspiration in speaking directly with artists—learning who they’re following, who inspires them, and getting a sense of the creative communities they’re part of. The artist network can feel endless, with so many incredible talents still undiscovered, which is why these conversations are so valuable to me. Recently, I was introduced to Roberto Lugo through a chance encounter with a furniture dealer. I might never have come across his work otherwise. Roberto is an exceptional talent. His art carries a powerful edge and speaks directly to contemporary culture. His current sculptural urns are particularly striking, and I’m hoping to commission one for a new project I’m working on. His pieces feel both historic and urgently modern, and I’m excited by the idea of collaborating on something meaningful.” —Sarah Magness, Studio Magness, New York
Near and Far
“I love sourcing art during buying trips to Europe, Montecito and New York. Each destination offers its own unique perspective and aesthetic. I also work closely with my dear friend and art consultant Lindsey Christensen, and often collaborate with Victoria Kennedy at Kennedy Contemporary gallery. One of my favorite ways to bring art into a space is by working directly with the artists themselves; those collaborations always result in something truly special and personal.” —Casey Hill, Casey Hill Studio, Newport Beach, California
Collected Items
“I like art that feels collected over time, not curated overnight. Whether it’s a tiny ink sketch found in a Montmartre stall or artwork from a local studio in Sausalito, I want the art to spark conversation, or at the very least a second glance. I source from everywhere: Paris flea markets, Beirut galleries, the occasional Instagram deep dive, and a tight-knit circle of Bay Area artists I’ve gotten to know over the years. I’m drawn to pieces with soul and substance—art that adds meaning to the spaces I design.” —Maria Khouri, Maria Khouri Interiors, San Francisco
Working Rolodex
“We source art globally, always guided by the client’s personality, preferences, and the overall narrative of the space. Because art is so deeply subjective, having a diverse and far-reaching network is essential. We’ve partnered with Maddox Gallery in London for contemporary and street art, and with Singapore-based Mucciaccia Gallery, which we admire for its regional depth and beautifully curated collections. For collectible photography, we’ve collaborated with Preiss Fine Arts, whose access to rare, iconic works brings a refined edge to our projects. We also love working directly with artists to commission bespoke pieces, both locally and internationally. One of our favorites is Australian artist Dina Broadhurst—her work adds a bold, sensual energy that aligns beautifully with many of our interiors. On a more personal note, we have a deep appreciation for black-and-white photography, especially the work of Greg Williams. His ability to capture raw emotion and human nature lends a quiet intensity that can completely transform a room. Ultimately, our approach to sourcing art is layered and intentional. Whether through galleries or direct artist collaborations, we aim to curate pieces that not only elevate a space, but also resonate deeply with those who live in it.” —Elliot Barratt, Elliot James Interiors, Singapore, Dubai and London
Tell a Story
“I’m drawn to pieces that feel storied, a little imperfect, and full of soul. I often source vintage art on Etsy, discover emerging independent artists through Instagram, and pick up one-of-a-kind finds at flea markets when I travel through Europe. I’m less concerned with matching a piece to a room and more interested in the emotion it evokes or the tension it brings. Good art doesn’t always ‘fit’ perfectly—and that’s exactly what makes it feel collected rather than decorated.” —Lauren Sullivan, Well by Design, Nashville
Collaboration Is Key
“Our art hunting often takes us beyond traditional galleries and art fairs. Art is deeply important to what we do, and we find that sourcing older paintings and drawings adds authenticity and depth to our spaces. We spend considerable time combing through local antique dealers here in California, as well as exploring Parisian brocantes and Spanish marketplaces, in search of that special painting, drawing, tapestry or sculpture. What matters most to us is that each piece still carries the spirit of the time in which it was made and proudly holds its sense of craftsmanship, regardless of whether it was created by a well-known artist or not. Lately, we have become enamored with the idea of collaborating with local artists and muralists to create custom pieces that are conceptualized and created specifically for the spaces they’ll inhabit—sometimes even painted directly onto the walls. This approach personalizes a home and takes living with art to a whole new level.” —Ian Parker, Parker + Co, Los Angeles
