A conversation with Debbie Davis Goodman
“Art enhances your experience in a space, both visually and intellectually. The art at the hotel has a story – all of it. I think people will leave and still be thinking about a piece of art they saw – I hope so.” – art advisor Debbie Goodman Davis, the curating mind and spirit behind Archer Hotel New York’s House Art Collection.
What is an art advisor?
I don’t have a gallery or an inventory. An Art Advisor is not an art dealer. I help individuals and organizations learn and collect art, and I am helping to find art that Archer would also want to have in his home.
What was your first art advisory project?
I’m still working on it! About nine years ago, I started advising a pharmaceutical company in Montreal. We are now starting a program on their intranet, in which employees can learn about the art and meet the actual artists or read about them. It’s becoming more active – people are interested – I’m proud of it.
What makes New York the right place for you to work with art?
I love the energy and the diversity of New York. No matter what you are interested in, you have the most well educated and interesting people in NY who are also interested in that. Where else can you get this level of art, theater, culture…? I love those things, so I love New York… I’m not into hiking.
Who set an positive example for you in your career?
Jeffrey Deitch made art and business together a tangible concept for me. He showed me that I should just DO something I was interested in doing by taking on major challenges himself (like opening galleries and starting new ventures), rather than waiting for opportunities to come to him. He is an innovator. He is somebody I admire.
Archer’s New York Art Collection will soon be on display outside and inside hotel public spaces
Curating for someone who has definite personal taste is wonderful. Archer may be seeking help curating art, but not finding a point of view. A steel sculpture of a couture gown by artist Thea Lanzisero. A digital/online/physical work byArtie Vierkant (above) which will be “intervened” with online post installation. Some examples of what Archer Hotel New York will include in the House Art Collection are:
- A steel sculpture of a couture gown by artist Thea Lanzisero. A digital/online/physical work by Artie Vierkant (above) which will be “intervened” with online post installation.
- Weegee photo of men leaving The Met Opera in the 1940’s as part of a witty Weegee collection.
How will Archer’s Art Take Part In Guests’ Stays?
Art enhances your experience in a space, both visually and intellectually. The art at the hotel has a story – all of it does. I think people will leave and still be thinking about a piece of art they saw – I hope so. This art couldn’t be in any hotel, in any city anywhere – the art shows part of Archer’s personality.
Art shouldn’t be intimidating. Foremost, when you look at a work of art, you should have a visceral experience. It’s more interesting when you look at a piece and learn about the artist, their backstory and their point of view.
the art shows part of Archer’s personality
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