Tania Sarin | Collector Profile
Step inside the home and collection of tastemaker Tania Sarin. With a sought-after eye for fashion, interiors and life-style, Sarin has built a chic platform with a stylish community. She shares her newly acquired paintings by Tappan artist Lisa Dengler, and her philosophy on collecting with us in her Collector Profile.
"Don’t worry about what’s trending or what people say you should collect. Good taste is personal. Build a collection that reflects your identity and evolves with you over time.”
Q&A:
What inspires you to collect the work of emerging artists?
One of my favorite things to do is work with emerging fashion brands. I appreciate fresh perspective, and they always have something new and exciting to share. The same goes for art. There’s a big crossover with fashion and art, and I get the same thrill with discovering a newer brand as I do with art. I want to be part of someone’s journey, and having original art, whether it’s a piece of clothing or a sculpture in my home, feels very special.
What is your earliest memory of art, and what led you to start collecting it?
My grandfather was a tailor for NBC and often worked for Bob Mackie on projects like costumes for Cher. Even though he was creating wearable art, many of the looks are now on display or collectors pieces. I had firsthand exposure to an artist and the response to the art; someone meticulously dedicated to their craft and witnessing multitudes appreciate it. This led to a love of fashion, art, and a deep appreciation for artistry and craftsmanship.
How has the sentimentality of your collection evolved over time?
I’ve been collecting art since I purchased my first home nine years ago. I found very interesting vintage pieces and curated them alongside newer pieces. I’ve always been interested in the story that art tells and the stories of the artists who create it, but now I’m even more invested in how a piece symbolically connects with my life. Every piece reminds me of a chapter. For example, I’m no longer collecting art for just my home, but now for mine and my husband’s home. I recently added a few pieces by Lisa Dengler, who happens to be an old friend, from Tappan to my collection that not only fit the aesthetic of the space, but blends my husband and my tastes. They remind me of this chapter of being newlyweds, and inspire me toward the growth and experiences we’ll have together in the future.
Is there a particular type of art you collect?
I’m always drawn toward pieces that evoke a certain feeling. I like warmth, texture, and pieces that feel a bit whimsical, but with grounding elements. I also love strong shapes! I tend to go for more abstract pieces with a definitive color story over something like a still life. I’m less interested in a piece where you immediately know what’s happening.
Why would you recommend Tappan to someone looking for art?
It’s so easy to find unique and impactful art. I’ve found pieces both online and through the LA gallery. There’s such a wide variety of artists and styles, I’ve even stumbled upon art by one of my old friends, Lisa Dengler, at Tappan, and there is truly something for everyone. The team is amazing, and they helped me find exactly what I needed for my space.
Where and when do you feel the most creative?
I tend to feel the most creative when I’m traveling. I travel internationally multiple times a year and love visiting new places, but some of my favorites are Italy, Japan, Lebanon, and Greece. Being somewhere else is always refreshing, I appreciate the new but it also helps me appreciate the familiar! I always return from travel ready to start a new project, refresh a space, or edit my work with a new strategy.
Where do you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from architecture, runway shows, furniture, my heritage, history, and the artists around me.
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?
My philosophy is to be intentional and to choose what you genuinely love. It sounds simple, but that's really the core of it. Pick pieces that speak to you—emotionally, aesthetically, spiritually. Don’t worry about what’s trending or what people say you should collect. Good taste is personal. Build a collection that reflects your identity and evolves with you over time. That’s when collecting becomes meaningful—it’s not just about art on your walls, it’s about curating your story.
Describe your collection in three words.
Warm, sculptural, abstract.
Share three people in the creative space who are inspiring you right now.
Jonathan Anderson, Hans Peer and Merci c’est vintage.
Tania Sarin's Favorites
“I've known Lisa for over 10 years and have followed her journey from influencer to artist. I recently purchased one of her pieces that felt perfect for our bedroom — the color palette, the emotion it evokes, everything about it just felt right.”On Awaken the Individual by Lisa Dengler
“Philip Soucy’s work has this raw, organic feel that’s both earthy and unexpected — like something ancient but totally modern. I love the texture and soul in each piece; it’s cool without trying too hard.”On Coiled Tan Porcelain Medium Bowl by Philip Soucy
“I was drawn to Orrin Whalen’s work for its texture, warmth, and subtle movement — it adds dimension without feeling loud. This piece is the perfect fit for any room: calming, elevated, and quietly striking.”On Blue Eyed Grass by Orrin Whalen
“Colt Seager’s work is rich, moody, and layered — it brings depth without overpowering a space. It has an understated edge and I love the way it adds character and color to a space.”On Alder by Colt Seager
“Vince Palacios’s work is one of the first artists I came across at Tappan. It’s funky, vibrant, and full of personality. His bold colors and playful energy bring a fresh, lively touch that’s fun and unexpected.”On Cave Vessel: Rainbow Karst by Vince Palacios
