Arushi Kapoor with teddy sculpture by Valay Shende

Art dealer Arushi Kapoor is the founder of ARTSop Fine Art Consulting in Los Angeles and the director of Arushi Arts Gallery in the USA, UK and India. Discover with Artsper her predictions for the future of the art market, the up and coming artists to look out for and her own extensive personal collection...

1. Hello Arushi! Can you tell us a little bit more about ARTSop and what you do?

ARTSop Fine Art Consulting helps individuals and organizations acquire notable asset class artworks for their collections. We understand our clients, educate them about the artwork and the art market, and facilitate the acquisition. 

2. You are based in Los Angeles: where are your favorite places to experience art in the city?

Los Angeles is home to some exceptional galleries and is increasingly becoming known for its art scene. The galleries MOCA and LACMA not only have phenomenal permanent collections but also have great rotating exhibits. Gagosian, Shulamit Nazarian, Jeffrey Deitch and Kohn Gallery are some of my other favorites.

Left: Mr Brainwash, Balloon Girl, 2020, Arushi's collection / Right: Andy Warhol, Moonwalk, 1987, available on Artsper

3. As an art lover yourself, what pieces can be found in your home?

My personal collection features artwork by artists from all around the world but focuses on Southeast Asian art. My bedroom has a Valay Shende teddy sculpture that was made for UNICEF. I have some Zarina Hashmi etchings that I absolutely adore. Additionally, some M.F. Husain and Paresh Maity canvases, both of whom I have known personally since I was little. I also have some works by internationally renowned artists such as Banksy, Takashi Murakami, Ai Wei Wei, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Javier Calleja, Roy Lichtenstein, Damien Hirst and Mr Brainwash. Finally, I own some unique artworks from up-and-coming international artists like Alli Conrad, Chris Sole, Dhavat Singh and Baua Devi.

4. Name three artists that you think everyone should keep an eye on at the moment?

Stik is an artist I definitely believe is going to do wonders in the street art scene. Salman Toor is another artist that I absolutely adore. Also, Bhuri Bai is an Indian Tribal artist that is absolutely brilliant. 

Left: Takashi Murakami, Dob: Myxomycete, 2017 / Right: Bhuri Bai, L'arbre sacré, 2011, both available on Artsper

5. What are your views on the expansion of the online art market? And how do you think it will contribute to major changes in the art world in the next few years?

The online art market has boomed in the past year. People are getting more confident buying art online. I have sold some major artworks just by having video call viewings or through images and videos. This past year, COVID has really forced the buyers to stay at home and figure out their purchases. Auction houses have been doing better than ever in online auctions and the editions market is doing exceptionally well. I think the online market will continue to grow exponentially. 

6. Following on from that, what do you think the art market will look like in the future?

Art is probably one of the most stable investments in the current climate. More and more, people are recognizing this. Technology will play a huge role in the expansion of the art market. Also, the market might end up being a bit more transparent and regulated due to this which overall is for the benefit of the art world. We are seeing some great startups in artificial intelligence in art and some innovative collectives. 

7. Finally, what would be your best advice for someone looking to start collecting contemporary art?

Think of and treat your art as an investment. You need to educate yourself before investing and understand the limits of your collection.