Article: Lauren Buxbaum Gordon | Collector Profile
Lauren Buxbaum Gordon | Collector Profile
Lauren Buxbaum Gordon, longtime Partner at Nate Berkus Associates, creates world-renowned interiors. The daughter of established Chicago antique dealers, Lauren’s work is guided by the perspective that the best interiors are ones that evolve over time and feel deeply personal. Having placed works by Tappan artists not only in client projects but in her personal home, Gordon shares her unique perspective on building a collection and buying what you love.
Artwork by Henryk, Photo by Kelly Marshall
Artwork by Ethan Caflisch, Photo by Wade Hall“I think emerging artists can add an edge to your interior. It’s fun to follow their careers and watch them grow.”
Q&A:
What is your earliest memory of art, and what led you to start collecting it?
My earliest memory of art is trips to the Art Institute of Chicago with my late grandma. To me, collecting art is completely intertwined with creating spaces that feel layered. It helps tell the story of who the homeowner is.
What are some of the most meaningful pieces in your collection?
My husband and I purchased an Ethan Cook piece early in our marriage, and it is something we will always keep as our first art investment.
What was the first work of art you fell in love with?
My parents had a massive, whimsical antique painting as wide as their bed that hung above it. It was so impactful in the room, and it made me realize how powerful art can be.
How has the sentimentality of your collection evolved over time?
To be honest, besides the Cook piece my husband and I purchased, I have only collected what I love. It has always been a knee-jerk reaction to pieces that felt perfect for our home, and our collection has moved with us from home to home.
What is the most recent piece of art you added to your collection and why?
I bought the Henryk piece from Tappan. I was preparing for an Elle Décor shoot at my house and was looking for something both vibrant and a little off-beat for me. I was drawn to the bright cobalt blue color which exists nowhere else in our home, and I still fixate it every morning as I come down the stairs.
Photo by Heather Talbert
Is there a particular type of art you collect?
Mostly modern, abstract as well as antique paintings and tapestries.
What or who has influenced you as a collector?
My parents, my late grandparents and Nate have all influenced me greatly.
Who are some of your all-time favorite artists?
Cy Twombly, David Ostrowski, Ethan Cook, Marie Bovo, to name a few.
Where and when do you feel the most creative?
I feel the most creatively charged at client installations. There’s an energy and a rush that fuels me unlike anything.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from books, travel, fashion…
How do you go about finding new pieces to expand your personal art collection?
I have bought several pieces from auction houses, but it has to be an immediate “love at first sight” for me. I’m the same way with jewelry.
What inspires you to collect the work of emerging artists?
I think emerging artists can add an edge to your interior. It’s like adding a bag and jewelry to an outfit—it can really speak to your personality. Also, it’s fun to follow their careers and watch them grow.
For new collectors, do you have any advice you wish to impart; Do you have a collecting ethos or philosophy that you want to share?
It’s the same ethos I have with design: buy what you love.
Describe your collection in three words.
Reflective, collected and tailored.
Share three people in the creative space who are inspiring you right now.
Nate Berkus
Francis Elkins
Stephen Sills
