Some collectors collect art based on their intuition: and their collections are all the richer for it. Kim Manocherian, a New York-based collector, is one of these authentic collectors and The Art Collector had the privilege to ask her about her collection as well as her current artist-in-residence, Dragan Strukelj (you can read the interview here.)
Can you tell us about your Scheherazade Collection – the name choice, its genesis and its evolution? (How) do you identify with Scheherazade?
Naming the collection Scheherazade came from a wonderful experience I had many years ago with the artist Paula Rego. I was collecting her work and I used to bring her vintage clothing to use on her “dollies” which she would pose and then use to create a painting. I was thrilled when Paula wanted me to sit for her and asked me what character from a fairy tale I would want to be. After much thought – I chose Scheherazade. First of all, it was a Persian story, and the story was about a woman who used storytelling to save other women’s lives. I loved that. I have that painting in my kitchen and it really encapsulates my belief in the power of storytelling.
As a follow-up question: do you only collect contemporary art?
Yes, I only collect contemporary art that resonates with me, regardless of whether the artist is unknown or established.
Can you tell us about your artist in residence, Dragan Stukelj. How did you come across the artist and what has been the brief for his residency? Have you hosted artists before?
I first met Dragan in 2017 at a dance studio. I decided to confront a personal challenge and try ballroom dancing, something that had always intimidated me. I was fortunate enough to be paired with Dragan as my teacher. What started as a single lesson quickly turned into a daily commitment over the course of many years. Not only is he an incredible dancer and teacher, but little did I know at the time, he was also a talented artist, and we shared a deep love for art.
During COVID, I reconnected with Dragan and was astonished by the work he had been quietly creating. I had no idea he possessed such an incredible artistic gift. I’ve always enjoyed sharing my collection, and a few years earlier, I had invited the artist Jessica Maffia to use part of my space as her studio for two years. Supporting emerging artists has always been important to me, whether by collecting their work early in their careers or finding other ways to help them grow. For example, I’ve supported artists at The Drawing Center, including hosting an artist’s book launch.
When I discovered Dragan’s talent, I knew I could offer him space to nurture his art—both literally and figuratively. I’m thrilled to provide him with a platform to continue developing his creative journey.
Can you tell us about some of the Iranian and Middle Eastern artists you collect?
One of the works I cherish is a video installation by Newsha Tavakolian titled ‘Listen’ (2010). It features a series of videos of famous Persian singers singing in silence, as they are banned from performing in public. I was moved to tears when I first saw it.
I also have many pieces by the self-taught artist Mokarrameh Ghanbari, who channeled her experiences of personal abuse through her art, painting everything in sight. One of my favorites is a stunning painting by Farideh Lashai, accompanied by a video projection that explores Persian values through a narrative centered around rabbits.
My collection includes works by both male and female artists, each offering a perspective on Iranian and Middle Eastern culture.
If a collection is a reflection of the collector: what does yours say about you?
I’ve always wished I had the ability to create art myself, but it’s simply not my gift—so instead, I collect. I’m incredibly grateful to the artists in my collection because, through their work, I can express parts of my own story. I have a bit of a dark sense of humor, and sometimes, even the most difficult subjects strike me as surprisingly funny.
Some pieces in my collection may not directly relate to my own experiences but address social issues I feel deeply about. My collection comes together like a puzzle or a narrative, representing my beliefs and the questions I constantly grapple with.
But one thing is certain: my collection reflects that I’m not afraid of controversy.
What is one change in the art world you would like to see?
I know there are many talented artists out there that cannot find a way to get exposure. I am always hunting for art in places where others may not be looking. I don’t like to follow trends.
What do you think is the future of technology in art?
I’ve surprised myself by including some video works in my collection. However, my general belief is that art is fundamentally a human experience—an expression made by human hands. I think that handmade, original works will always hold the most value, especially as we navigate a future increasingly marked by disconnection and digital overload.
What do you hope the legacy of your art collection will be?
I would love to see my collection featured in a museum one day. As a mother, I also hope my children will have the privilege of enjoying the art I’ve collected. Living with this art is a deeply personal experience for me; it’s an integral part of my everyday life. There are certain pieces I hope to eventually place in museums, but above all, I want my children to experience the joy of living with art, just as I’ve been fortunate enough to do.
