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The Art of Collecting with Kitty Callaghan

Gemstone of choice: Ruby.

A force of nature – tall, charming and kind. Kitty works fluidly: as an artist currently working toward her own gallery show, a contributor to RUSSH Magazine (primarily as a photographer) and has a creative client list that includes Ellery, ELLE and more.

Photographed by Claudia Smith at home.
A self confessed late-bloomer: Kitty wears Mineraleir jewels, Sandro blazer and zero makeup.

‘At the moment, I feel like I am on a bit of a journey in terms of what I “do”. I am trying to figure that out myself. Every day is different for me, it is somewhat terrifying and very exciting’

‘Sobriety’ by Holly Rhodes is Kitty’s first big investment in art, on top of a home already brimming with collections of ceramics, art prints and of course clothes.

My dear friend Holly Rhodes and I were out having a drink together 4 years ago and I said to her, if there is anything left from your recent show, I would love to buy it. Turns out my favourite piece was still available. The following week, she brought the piece over (and I remembered that we had the discussion after one too many wines).

Kind of ironic as the piece is named ‘Sobriety’ from her show Holier Than Thou. To me this has significance as, funnily enough, my great grandfather was actually a priest. I remember thinking I couldn’t justify buying something that was decadent when I had bills to pay at the time. But I have never looked back, it is so special to me and I will never tire of looking at it. I feel safe when I’m in its company. Buy art – you will never regret it if you choose well. 

On the perfect pink bag.
(Elizabeth Macpherson) found it in Vietnam. She has amazing vintage style and I think it’s one of my favourite pieces I have ever been given. It’s all plastic, so that means it’s automatically going to have be somewhat of an heirloom, because it can’t go into landfill.

Fresh faced in Mineraleir jewels.
Wearing the Art Collector Hoop (covered in brown diamonds, smokey quartz and citrine), with the Vessel Earring.

A collection of  top quality leather bags.
Prada, A.P.C, Proenza and more in her bedroom sized closet.

Her distinctly creative collection of clothing and accessories is admirable to say the least.

I am a huge fan of Vinnies, Salvos and the like. I associate clothes with memories and for that reason I am not much of an internet shopper – it’s all about experience for me. Finding things in real life make me cherish them more.  

Although a slew of similar handbags indicates a want over need sensibility.

I have been quite the hoarder in years gone by but I am trying harder to consume a little less. I have a few handbags that are my go-tos. I knew they were an investment at the time of purchase, and I think I chose well as I never seem to get sick of them.

On the relationship between being creative and getting dressed. 

With turning 30 I have learned to love my body more and its allowed for me to embrace my true style for the pieces that I love to wear most. It’s become more apparent to me what I do and don’t like. I have always been a slow bloomer.

Favourite artist: Salvador Dali, for his utterly wild imagination.

Favourite exhibitions: Cy Twombly at the Pompidou + Musée de l’Orangerie to see the Monet water lilies.

And finally, Kitty’s dream art acquisition: A sculpture by Barbara Hepworth or a photo/painting by Gerhard Richter.

Sobriety by Holly Rhodes.
Kitty’s first major art investment.

 

Kitty’s own art.
Known for her signature collage style.