Article: Sai De Silva | Collector Profile
Sai De Silva | Collector Profile
Sai De Silva is a Real Housewives of New York castmate, content creator for brands like Audemar Piguet, Dior, Fendi, and more, and a mom who chronicles her lifestyle and passions across beauty, fashion, travel and design. As a Brooklyn native - honest and straightforward - Sai's friends would say she's "as New York as it gets." Here De Silva shares her unique perspective on building a collection and buying what you love.
Artwork by Claire Salvo
Artwork by Luke Chiswell“Every piece I bring in has to feel like it reflects a moment, a memory, or a part of who I am or who I’m becoming. It’s less about filling a space and more about telling a story.”
Artwork by Isaac Zoller and Katie Burdon
Q&A:
What inspires you to collect the work of emerging artists?
There’s something special about supporting someone at that stage, when they’re still experimenting and learning how to tell their story in such a raw, unfiltered way. It feels like you’re collecting a moment in time before the rest of the world catches on.
What is your earliest memory of art, and what led you to start collecting?
My earliest memories of art are actually tied to family—watching how my mom and uncle put things together, how color and texture told a story. I didn’t grow up thinking of “collecting art” in a traditional sense, but I’ve always been surrounded by creativity. As I built my own home collecting became a way to express that—almost like an extension of personal style, but for my Space.
How has the sentimentality of your collection evolved over time?
In the beginning, I had works that my uncle made that had vibrant colors and beautiful lines. I knew I wanted to continue building my collection over time, so it’s become very intentional. Every piece I bring in has to feel like it reflects a moment, a memory, or a part of who I am or who I’m becoming. It’s less about filling a space and more about telling a story.
Is there a particular type of art you are drawn to collecting?
I tend to gravitate toward pieces that feel modern but still have depth—whether that’s through texture, movement, or subject matter. I love work that centers around women, identity, and culture, but also pieces that just make you feel something instantly when you walk into a room.
Where and when do you feel most creative?
Honestly, early mornings—that pre-chaos of the day when everything is quiet is when I get my most focused work done. That’s when I can really think clearly and tap into ideas without distractions. I also feel most creative when I’m at home, moving things around, decorating, or just living in my space.
Where do you get creative inspiration from?
Everywhere—travel, fashion, architecture, even conversations. I’m constantly observing how people express themselves and doing deep dives on Facebook Marketplace or vintage bidding auctions. I also get a lot of inspiration from my day-to-day life in New York—it’s such a layered, dynamic place that there’s always something new to take in.
For new collectors, do you have any advice to impart? Do you have a collecting ethos or philosophy?
Buy what you love—always. Don’t worry about trends or what you think you should have. Your collection should feel like you. Start small, take your time, and let it evolve naturally. I think of collecting as something very personal. It’s not about perfection, it’s about the statement a piece makes and how that resonates with or through you.
Describe your collection in three words?
I’d say it’s a mix of bold, powerful, and deeply personal. Pieces that make a statement, pieces that feel intimate, and pieces that hold meaning beyond just what you see.
Name three people in the creative space that are inspiring you right now.
Those who are creating with intention and not just following a formula always stand out to me.
