Bureau Footnotes On Collecting Art

One of the first elements to keep in mind when starting an art collection is cultivating a solid idea of what kind of art you want to collect and why. Yolonda Ross’ art collection centers the work of Black and Brown artists, and she has slowly built a collection that participates in the ongoing conversation about race and identity. Click below to learn more about some of the artists in her collection:

Derek Fordjour

Derek Fordjour, Backbend Double, 2018, acrylic, charcoal, oil pastel, and foil on newspaper mounted on canvas

Derek Fordjour creates art that explores themes of race and identity, often incorporating various media on canvas.

Rhonda Brown

Rhonda Brown, Royal II, 2020, acrylic on canvas

Rhonda Brown specializes in advising individuals and institutions on building thoughtful art collections with a focus on Black artists.

Cey Adams

Cey Adams, Paramount/Kool-Aid, 2015, handmade fiber paper, magazines, and acrylic on canvas

Cey Adams emerged from the downtown graffiti movement of the 80s and became the founding Creative Director at Def Jam Recordings, shaping the visual culture of Hip-Hop.

Violeta Sofia

Violeta Sofia, Dutch Master, 2024, mixed media

Violeta Sofia is an award-winning artist, photographer, and activist whose work, deeply influenced by her multicultural upbringing, explores themes of identity, diversity, and human connection with a focus on female inclusivity and representation.