Adore December 2020

Jim has tucked outside? Well, he found those on the back of a truck while driving to Baton Rouge and has collected them ever since. Jim is a true believer in buying the art that speaks to you. "Buy what you love that you can afford and all the rest works out," is his warm advice when I asked how he goes about choosing art. "My process is that if I see something that draws me in, I come home, have a glass of wine and sleep on it. When I get up, I make my decision." I love that advice, because it feels so inclusive and encouraging. With this philosophy squarely in place, Jim has been a longtime and significant benefactor of KIDsmART and YAYA, two of our city's most important arts education organizations for children. He cares deeply for the New Orleans arts scene — the artists, the gallerists, the museums, and even the young students with budding talent. The through line with the collection is that all works are by local and Southern artists or acquired from local galleries, with most purchased at the Arthur Roger Gallery. That commitment to art in New Orleans has been immeasurable. On my last visit, I asked Jim what his favorite piece of art or artist was, thinking that was an impossible question or one that he would need to mull over. But no...his answer was quick and definitive. "The very first piece of art that I purchased was by Ida Kohlmeyer. We bonded and developed a deep friendship over the years. So, yes, Ida Kohlmeyer. She was an outstanding artist and an even more outstanding person."

details

IN THE DINING ROOM Batwoman by Nicole Charbonnet Kinetic Mobile by Tim Prentice Large Glass Vessel by Dale Chihuly

Art Installation | JOHN PECORINO

Painting on Living Room Back Wall | GEORGE DUNBAR

24

ADORE • DECEMBER 2020