When we talk about art collecting, every piece holds a story, and each collection reflects the unique journey of its curator. From the quiet corners of private galleries to the bustling halls of international art fairs, collectors like Sonia Borrell navigate a landscape rich with creativity, emotion, and possibility.
We recently met Sonia, an art collector, and brain behind the stories weaved by the Tryson Collection. She’s someone who has been collecting art that goes beyond its aesthetic appeal – instead, her focus has always been picking pieces that “make her feel.”
Her journey into the art world reads like a masterclass in embracing passion and legacy. Born into a traditional family in the heart of Barcelona, where medicine and architecture were the norm, her path seemed destined for predictability. A diligent student in an all-girls Catholic school, Sonia followed the expected route, earning a Master’s degree in law from the University of Barcelona, much to her family’s pride. Yet, beneath the disciplined exterior lay an artist’s soul, nurtured in quiet moments with crayons and colouring books, where the seeds of her lifelong love for art were planted.
In 2008, Sonia took a leap that many dream of but few dare to make. She fully embraced her passion for art collecting, marking the beginning of the Tryson Collection. This collection, which she curates with a keen eye for contemporary and vibrant works, has grown to become a tapestry of cultural and personal significance. Each piece reflects pivotal moments in her life, from absorbing Indonesia’s rich culture during a family trip in the 80s to exploring Egypt’s age-old enigmas in the 90s. These experiences have deeply influenced her aesthetic, driving her to collect art that resonates on a personal and emotional level.
Sonia sees “evolution in art” as a powerful tool, shaped by her upbringing surrounded by art. “Art isn’t static; it’s a living, breathing entity that evolves alongside us,” she explains. “Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how art has the power to transcend time and space, how it adapts to reflect the changing world around us. It’s a tool for expression, for challenging norms, and for sparking conversations that resonate across generations. Embracing this evolution allows us to connect with art on a deeper level, to appreciate its ever-changing beauty and significance.” She brings in a really interesting point to the conversation, “An artwork must resonate with me on a personal level. It’s important for me to perceive the narrative in every piece I consider.”
One of the defining aspects of the Tryson Collection is its future-oriented approach. Sonia’s vision extends beyond her personal enjoyment of art; she sees her collection as a legacy for future generations. “My collection is curated in the 21st century with the 22nd century in mind,” she says. This forward-thinking perspective ensures that the collection remains dynamic and relevant, a living testament to the ever-evolving world of art.
The Collection is a global ensemble – every piece from every corner of the art world reflects her relationship with contemporary Spanish artists like Okuda, Jaume Plensa, and Edgar Plans is evident. She’s delved into the dynamic world of London street art, collecting works by Banksy, Stik, and D*Face. Her exploration of the global Pop Surrealist movement has brought works by Szabolcs Bozó, Felix Treadwell, and Vivi Cho into her collection.
One recent addition to the Tryson Collection is a canvas by South Korean artist Vivi Cho, whose work captivates Sonia with its dreamy exploration of emotions and relationships. Another notable piece is a small canvas by American artist Alex Katz, acquired at Art Basel Miami 2023. “It was an immediate, love-at-first-sight connection,” she recalls. The latest piece in her collection is by German artist André Butzer, whose exhibitions at the Thyssen Museum in Madrid and the Museo del Novecento in Florence left a lasting impression on her.
Inspirations And More….
Sonia’s family plays a crucial role in shaping the Tryson Collection. As a mother to three boys, born between 2000 and 2004, she understands the importance of involving the younger generation in the art world. “My sons are like windows to what lies ahead,” she says. “They keep me connected to the pulse of youth and teach me so much about the future.” This connection with her children has dramatically inspired her fondness and outlook on collecting. “Every piece in my collection tells a story,” she explains, “whether it’s a reflection of my travels, my upbringing, or my interactions with family – I feel more connected to them when I inspire my art “
For Sonia, collecting art is not just about acquiring beautiful pieces; it’s about building relationships with artists and nurturing their careers. She mentors emerging artists, providing them with a platform to shine and be recognized. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to follow an artist’s journey from the inception of an idea to the final brushstroke,” she says. “It’s a partnership, a shared path of growth and discovery.”
Her involvement with museums extends beyond personal acquisitions. She lends artworks to institutions like the Museo del Novecento, where one of her pieces from André Butzer is on display until the end of summer. This practice not only enriches public collections but also underscores her commitment to sharing art with a broader audience.
On one hand, Sonia is quite focused on navigating the art world through the lens of art galleries, preferring this method over auctions. On the other hand, she enjoys flexibility in such a way – “I steer my own course, making liberal decisions, extending boundaries, and curating my collection with something that resonates and stimulates me to think and feel,” she explains.
The Transformation Is Constant
During our conversation, I confessed to Sonia that I don’t grasp the concept of the evolution of art. Where other artists have looked down on my ignorance, Sonia celebrated this. She explained that the art world will undergo a lot of transformations in the next decade, driven by a younger generation that values transparency, fairness, and equality. “The younger generations today have a profound connection with art, music, and fashion,” she observes. For Sonia, this insight, gained from her close relationship with her sons, shapes her understanding of the future of art.
A recent trip to Saudi Arabia highlighted the global nature of this transformation. Meeting local artists and young people in Jeddah, she was struck by their similarities to her own children in terms of tastes and aspirations. “Living in Europe, we’re fortunate to experience a vibrant art scene right on our doorstep,” she notes. She goes on, “In contrast, the young people I met in Jeddah must travel great distances to see original works by artists like Takashi Murakami, Stik, or Banksy.” This realization underscored the need to bring the art scene closer to the younger generation in the Middle East, fostering a deeper connection and appreciation for art within their own communities.
A Legacy in the Making
The Tryson Collection is a living, breathing testament to Sonia Borrell’s passion for art and her commitment to nurturing future generations of artists and collectors. It reflects her journey from a traditional career path to a vibrant world of creativity and innovation. By involving her family and mentoring emerging artists, Sonia ensures that her collection remains dynamic and forward-thinking.
She wants to tell people the unsaid stories through her gleaned collections. That’s certainly part of why she believes finding art and art collections that resonate with you is challenging – there’s a vast array of styles, mediums, and narratives that the art world offers. “It can be overwhelming,” she admits, “to sift through countless pieces, each vying for your attention and interpretation.” However, she believes that the key to overcoming this challenge lies in embracing curiosity and openness. “It’s about allowing yourself to explore, to engage with art that may be outside your comfort zone,” she explains. “By approaching art with an open mind and a willingness to learn, you can begin to perceive its complexities and uncover the stories that lie beneath the surface. It’s a journey of discovery—one that requires patience, introspection, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.”
Image Credit: Sonia Borrell