Jean-Marc Bottazzi, a Japanese bond trader and collector based in Hong Kong, discusses his philosophy of collecting in an interview with The Art Newspaper. He emphasizes deep, focused support of artists rather than acquiring a superficial variety, citing his extensive holdings of over 100 works by the 96-year-old Japanese artist A-Yo and deep collections of Abstract Expressionism, Gutai, and conceptual photography.
Bottazzi's perspective matters as it highlights a counterpoint to market-driven, checklist-style collecting. His approach, influenced by having an artist brother, prioritizes meaningful patronage that impacts an artist's career. His role as a key lender to M+ in Hong Kong and his advocacy for the museum underscore the growing influence of serious collectors in shaping institutional narratives and supporting artistic legacies, particularly across East-West dialogues.