The art scene is vibrant in Volusia, it thrives, enriched by passionate artists, collectors, and enthusiasts who understand that art is more than a visual experience—it's an investment in the soul.
One such individual is Grace Senior Morandi, an artist hailing from Barranquilla, Colombia, whose life and home are testaments to the profound impact of art. But Grace’s experience isn’t unique. Across the globe, collectors and creators alike are finding that the value of art extends far beyond its price tag. It is an investment that enriches lives, nurtures culture, and creates legacies.
The Emotional and Spiritual Value of Art
Grace emphasizes that investing in art transcends monetary considerations. "Art is food for your soul," she explains. "It makes your heart happy when you see the colors." Art, in this sense, serves as more than just decoration—it becomes part of the fabric of daily life. Each piece in her collection serves as a daily source of joy and inspiration, reminding her of the diverse cultures and emotions encapsulated within the artworks. “When I look at my collection,” Grace says, “I don’t just see paint on canvas; I see history, culture, and emotions that speak to me in ways words cannot.”
This emotional connection is something that every art collector can relate to. Art has the power to evoke memories, create moods, and even transform the energy of a room. It allows us to connect to a time, a place, or a feeling that may be otherwise lost. The paintings, sculptures, and photographs on the walls of our homes are more than just objects; they are windows into the artist’s soul.
The Artist's Perspective: Seeing Beyond the Ordinary
Artists, according to Grace, perceive the world through a unique lens. "We don't see life the way the average person does," she notes. This distinctive perspective allows artists to infuse their work with depth and emotion, inviting viewers to engage with art on a profound level. For an artist like Grace, the world becomes a series of compositions, colors, and textures waiting to be explored and captured.
For collectors, this unique way of seeing the world provides insight into the artist’s vision. The complexity of each piece reveals a story—a moment in time, a burst of creativity, or even a reflection of society. Grace’s artistic style has been shaped by various teachers from around the globe, each imparting lessons that underscore the importance of investing in art. Through these experiences, she has learned that art not only appreciates in value but also enriches one's understanding of different cultures and techniques.
Starting Your Art Collection: Research and Legacy
Embarking on the journey of art collection involves more than acquiring aesthetically pleasing pieces; it's about building a legacy. Grace recommends conducting thorough research on artists who capture your interest. Understanding an artist’s background, technique, and the context of their work can deepen your appreciation and inform your investment decisions.
"Investing in art is a commitment," Grace explains. "It’s about supporting the artist’s journey and the cultural value their work brings to the world." Whether it’s discovering emerging artists or acquiring works from established masters, research is key to ensuring that your collection remains meaningful and valuable.
Moreover, art can play a significant role in estate planning. Incorporating artworks into trusts or wills ensures that your collection is preserved and passed down through generations, maintaining its emotional and financial value. Art is a gift that can transcend time, providing future generations with not only cultural heritage but also a connection to their ancestors’ passions and values.
Factors That Enhance the Value of Art
Understanding what makes a piece of art valuable is crucial for any collector. Grace highlights several key factors that contribute to an artwork’s worth:
- Time and Effort: The dedication an artist invests in creating a piece adds to its worth. "Every brushstroke, every detail, is part of the journey," Grace explains. The more time and effort an artist puts into their work, the more valuable it becomes.
- Quality of Materials: High-quality canvases, paints, and other materials ensure the artwork’s longevity and appeal. Art made with superior materials retains its vibrancy and can endure the test of time.
- Technique and Layers: The complexity of techniques and the application of multiple layers contribute to the depth and richness of the artwork. This multi-dimensional approach often makes a piece more visually stimulating and adds to its appeal for collectors.
For those new to art collection, Grace advises selecting pieces that resonate personally. "Look for pieces that call to you and stand out," she encourages, emphasizing the importance of personal connection over potential financial gain. Collecting art should not only be about the potential return on investment but also about finding pieces that align with your own aesthetic and emotional values.
Art in Volusia: A Community Passion
Volusia boasts a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries, festivals, and events celebrating artistic expression. The city's commitment to the arts is evident in institutions like the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art, which houses the world's largest collection of Florida art, featuring a rotating selection of 2,600 oil and watercolor paintings.
In 2024, philanthropists Cici and Hyatt Brown made an extraordinary contribution to Daytona Beach’s cultural tapestry with a $150 million endowment to the Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS). This transformative gift will fund the creation of a magnificent 60,000-square-foot space, further elevating Daytona’s place as a beacon of artistic expression. The Browns’ visionary support reflects how art has the power to transcend the personal, sparking growth and fostering a shared sense of community, while expanding the city’s cultural footprint beyond Florida's borders.
Local venues such as the Starry Night Gallery on Beach Street and The Hub on Canal in New Smyrna Beach serve as vital platforms for artists, including Grace, to showcase and sell their work. These spaces foster a sense of community and make art accessible to both residents and visitors alike. Through these exhibitions, local artists gain valuable exposure, while art enthusiasts are invited to connect with the creators and discover the stories woven into each piece.
The Hub on Canal stands out as a dynamic center where creativity meets social impact. Not only does it provide a stage for local talent, but it also hosts groundbreaking programs like their Arts in Medicine initiative. This program pairs artists with individuals facing health challenges, using creative expression to support healing. By offering a therapeutic outlet, Arts in Medicine fosters emotional and physical well-being, allowing art to become a source of comfort and resilience. In this way, The Hub transcends traditional art spaces, blending wellness and creativity to transform lives and elevate the community.
The Lasting Impact of Art Investment
Investing in art is a multifaceted endeavor, offering emotional fulfillment, cultural enrichment, and potential financial rewards. As Grace's experience illustrates, art has the power to transform spaces, elevate the spirit, and create enduring legacies. Collecting art allows us to celebrate the beauty of the world, while simultaneously preserving it for future generations.
Whether you're an aspiring collector or a seasoned connoisseur, embracing art can profoundly enhance your life and the lives of those who inherit your passion. Art is not only an investment in tangible assets; it is an investment in the soul, in culture, and in the stories that shape our world. Art transforms spaces, builds communities, and fosters connections across time and place. In a world that is constantly changing, art remains a timeless way to invest in what matters most: our emotions, our legacies, and our shared humanity.
Grace's artwork can be found at The Hub on Canal as well as Starry Nights.
...art can play a significant role in estate planning. Incorporating artworks into trusts or wills ensures that your collection is preserved and passed down through generations, maintaining its emotional and financial value...
"...I see history, culture, and emotions that speak to me in ways words cannot.”~ Grace says about her Art Collection
The Hub transcends traditional art spaces, blending wellness and creativity to transform lives and elevate the community.