Art Collector, Sonia Borrell, Talks About Bridging Tradition and Modernity Through Middle Eastern Art

The art scene in the Middle East is really something special. It's like this beautiful blend of tradition and modernity, where ancient cultural heritage meets the latest in artistic expression. Take cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah, for example. They've become major art hubs, hosting international art fairs, cutting-edge galleries, and vibrant street art scenes. It's amazing to see how the art market there is booming, with a growing appreciation for both local and international art. And you know what's driving it? The younger generation. They're so eager to explore and connect with all these different artistic stories and styles. It's a really exciting time for art in the Middle East!

Sonia Borrell, whose Tryson Collection spans contemporary Spanish artists, London street art, and global Pop Surrealism, has been profoundly influenced by her experiences in the Middle East. Recently featured in GQ Middle East, Sonia’s work to make art more accessible to young Saudis has garnered significant attention. Her mission to bridge cultural gaps through art, especially in Saudi Arabia, underscores her dedication to fostering a deeper appreciation for art within Middle Eastern communities. This focus not only enriches the local art scene but also highlights the universal power of art to connect and inspire across diverse cultures.

Sonia Borrell, an art collector at the Tryson Collection, is reshaping the landscape of art appreciation in the Middle East. Her journey, from a traditional legal career in Barcelona to the bustling streets of Jeddah, highlights her mission to make art more accessible and bridge cultural gaps. Recently featured in GQ Middle East, Sonia's experiences offer a unique perspective on the transformative power of art.

Her introduction to art wasn't something she planned. "I grew up in a very traditional family," she recalls. "Pursuing a career in law seemed like the natural path." Yet, even as she earned her Master’s degree in law, the quiet moments spent with crayons and coloring books during her childhood lingered in her mind. "Those early experiences with art always stayed with me," she says. "They were my escape, my way of understanding the world."

Her recent travels to Saudi Arabia were a turning point. "Walking through Jeddah, I saw this incredible energy among the local youth," Sonia shares. "They have this vibrant passion for music, fashion, and art, just like my son." However, she couldn't ignore the lack of accessibility to art in the region compared to Europe. "It was a stark contrast," she says. "In Europe, art is everywhere, but in the Middle East, it’s still finding its place."

This disparity motivated Sonia to take action. "I wanted to bring art closer to the young people who were in a quest to resonate their stories," she explains. Through the Tryson Collection, Sonia has been working to create more opportunities for young artists in the Middle East. "Art should be part of everyday life, not just something you see in a gallery," she believes.

Her collection reflects this diverse network, featuring contemporary Spanish artists like Edgar Plans, Jaume Plensa, and Marria Pratts, as well as London Street artists like Banksy and Stik. She's also ventured into the Japanese contemporary art movement leaded by Yoshitomo Nara and Takashi Murakami. Sonia's vision for curating art embraces the key figures of the 21st century, believing they could become the great masters of the 22nd century.

Sonia’s vision for the Tryson Collection is forward-thinking. "I curate my collection with the future in mind," she says. "It’s about keeping it dynamic and relevant, a living testament to the evolving world of art." This philosophy extends to her practice of lending artworks to museums, such as the Museo del Novecento in Florence, which currently features a piece by André Butzer from her collection.

Reflecting on her journey, Sonia offers practical advice to aspiring collectors. "Start small and personal," she suggests. "You don’t need a huge budget. Begin with pieces that resonate with you." Her first significant acquisition was a modest piece from a small gallery, which still holds a special place in her collection.

She also emphasizes supporting living artists. "Building relationships with artists and watching their work evolve is incredibly rewarding," she notes. "It adds a dynamic dimension to your collection."

As Sonia continues her mission to bridge cultural gaps through art, her journey serves as an inspiring example of how art can connect people across different backgrounds. "Art has the power to bring people together, to foster understanding and appreciation across cultures," she concludes. "That’s the legacy I hope to leave behind."