Book Launch: "Inside the Homes of Artists"

The Who's-Who of the art world gathered at famed collector's villa in Beaulieu to celebrate the launch of Tiqui Atencio Demirdjian's latest book.

In a glorious farewell to summer, Bon Vivant Mag attended an enchanting evening at a secluded La Berlugane villa in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, a rare chance to view inside the walls of one of the French Riviera's most respected art collectors, Fatima Maleki. The exclusive event celebrated the launch of her friends' newest book, "Inside the Homes of Artists: For Art's Sake," published by Rizzoli New York. The author, Tiqui Atencio Demirdjian, is not only an authority on the hottest new trends in the art market but also a friend and benefactor to some of the world's most famous artists. 

Before the party began, Bon Vivant Mag was invited upstairs to interview the world-renowned art expert and learn more about her chemin to become the woman with the golden touch. Escorted up white marble stairs past contemporary sculptures and vast canvases of post-modern art, our small group of journalists were welcomed into a gorgeous two-story library with rich, mahogany bookshelves. In contrast, oversized white sofas and luminously lined windows brightened the space. In the centre of this perfect blend of warmth and cool stood the elegant and imposing Tiqui, beaming with joy to hold in her hands the physical culmination of her latest labour of love. 

A Unique Childhood

Originally from Venezuela, Tiqui’s jet-set childhood started her art education early. The daughter of an avid collector, she grew up amongst the halls of Christie's and Sotheby's travelling from South America to New York, to London, and Paris, following the world's most important art auctions. Speaking of her father, she recounted: 

“He told me: ‘This is going to be your school - you’re going to learn everything.’ And I learned not only about art but also about the market. It opened up my eyes, and also my ambition to have a collection.” 

This unique and highly specialized education gave Tiqui a deep understanding of the X-factor that makes an artist a top seller. And that is why she is prized for her golden touch, not only by seasoned art collectors but also by new investors looking to diversify their holdings in fine art.

Today, Tiqui is an influential personality in the contemporary art world. She serves as president of the International Director’s Council of the Guggenheim Museum, and a member of

the Latin American Acquisition Committee of the Tate, which she founded in 2003, and continues to actively support with new artists. Here in Monaco, she serves as a committee member of the Nouveau Musee Nationale de Monaco (NMNM). Through these positions, she explains, she learned more and more about art, which made her hungry to understand the artists themselves. 

“It was very natural for me to fall into wanting to meet the artists, the dealers, the collectors… in their home. I want to know what they think, how they tick, and how they feel about art.”

Four years after "For Art's Sake: Inside the Homes of Art Dealers," this follow-up volume, “Inside the Homes of Artists,” shifts the lens to artists’ personal realms, offering readers a intimate look at the environments that influence their genius. Tiqui's close rapport with the artists gives us an intimate portrait of what inspires the artists' work and the often unseen side of the art world. The result--a gorgeous publication that falls somewhere between a coveted coffee table book and a thoroughly researched anthology.

An Enchanted Evening

The evening unfolded flawlessly, while Fatima herself—an enigmatic and ever-gracious hostess—invited the guests to enjoy a feast of traditional Persian dishes. Under the impressive architecture of her contemporary residence, guests dined at candle-lit tables in the expansive gardens, amidst sculptures and paintings by some of the most esteemed and emerging names in the art world today.

Many of the artists featured in the book were present at the event, providing them a perfect opportunity to mingle with collectors and Monagasque VIPs, sharing their inspirations and the stories behind their spaces.

The evening’s conversations flowed with insights into Tiqui’s fascinating work and her dedication to capturing the intimate spaces that fuel artists' creativity. After dinner, the guest of honour then sat at a long table displaying her new volume and signing copies for the guests. 

Order your Copy

Tiqui's latest volume, Inside the Homes of Artists: For Art’s Sake is illustrated by stunning photographs by Jean François

Jaussaud, unveiling exceptional art collections and unique interiors, and capturing the personality of the artists themselves in each of his photos.

The book is available from 1st October at all international bookstores and online through the publisher's website, Rizzoli New York.