Five years ago I closed Page Blackie Gallery. Since then, I have had the enormous pleasure of representing some of New Zealand’s leading artists, and working with private collectors, corporates and public collections to find their dream artworks.
I am proud to sell artworks on behalf of my artists. I have also continued my work from Page Blackie, sourcing exceptional historical paintings from collections with owners wishing to sell and have found new homes for these masterpieces. I get a huge amount of joy connecting artists with collectors and have decided I want to continue this help, by breaking down some of the barriers of the art world.
Verso was born from a need in the art market, for collectors who love art but don’t visit dealer galleries frequently, and artists who have work in their studios, which they would like to see the light of day and find the art collector who will fall in love with it.
The method for artists selling their artworks hasn't really changed in 150 years. The internet was the last big advancement, providing collectors with the ability to find art online. I could picture a way to extend this, to allow artists to present their work to an online audience of passionate art collectors, within a community of excellence. Hence, Verso: an online platform where clients are able to purchase works by New Zealand's most exceptional artists from the comfort of their own homes. The prices are listed, there are no secrets. And the artworks are often sent to you directly from the artist's studio, creating a strong connection between art lover and art maker.
Why the name 'Verso'? It is on the verso (the back of an artwork) that the artist's signature usually finds its home, along with valuable provenance information that breathes life into each creation. Just as one would flip a painting to explore its hidden side, Verso invites art enthusiasts to embark on a transformative journey, peering beyond the surface and delving into the story behind the artwork.
In choosing the name Verso, we invite you to uncover the untold stories and intricate details that lie beneath the brushstrokes. Verso signifies a symbolic turning of the artworld, encouraging collectors to explore beyond the conventional boundaries and create stronger connections with art makers.
Click through to find your dream artwork, or contact me for personal assistance in what you are trying to find.
Verso is a homage to the back of a painting, a place where the artwork reveals its hidden mysteries.
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What is Verso?
The Art Counsel is proud to present Verso, our new online sales platform.
Verso redefines how art collectors experience the thrill of acquiring exceptional artworks from the comfort of their own homes, thereby avoiding traditional art world barriers.
There is a lot to tell about Verso, but there are two main things you need to know.
1. The artworks are exceptional. We provide you with a safe, trusted environment, not only for finding New Zealand’s finest artworks, but creating connections between you as an art enthusiast with the brilliant minds behind each artwork. We then move aside, allowing you to have control. We understand the barriers that have previously intimidated collectors, and we're determined to dismantle them, ensuring that the art world becomes an inviting and accessible realm for discerning collectors looking for outstanding artworks.
2. 80% equity to artists. It’s really important for us to acknowledge how important dealer galleries are. They exist to allow artists the opportunity to showcase their current practice with exhibitions, which Verso will never offer. But because Verso operates on significantly lower overheads, we are able to pass on exceptional returns to our artists. Accordingly, any artworks purchased through Verso return 80% commission to artists.
In an art world that has remained largely unchanged for 200 years, we aim to demonstrate there is room for an additional model helps artists to flourish.
We meticulously curate the artists and artworks available on Verso. You will know most of the artists, and if you don’t, you can rest assured they deserve to be here. This provides you with a safe environment to learn more about new artists, and to acquire them for your collection with ease.
We are proud to present you with Verso, where your love for art intertwines with our belief that art should be accessible, cherished, and celebrated. Join us in making this change as we redefine the art collecting experience, infusing it with joy, authenticity, and the shared love for remarkable creations.
Any artworks you acquire will be packaged specifically for you, often directly from the artist’s studio, and sent to your home.