Janice Bond's Collection: An Odyssey Through Global Black Art
“I aim for my collection to serve as both an archive and a catalyst for nurturing emerging artists while preserving and promoting the works of mid-career to master artists from various diasporas.”
Janice Bond, an art advisor with a vision, has interlaced the threads of her fine art collection to bring into existence a collection that reflects and impacts the global black art community. Her endeavors extend beyond personal enjoyment, reverberating through the corridors of contemporary art as she nurtures, preserves, and promotes black voices within the artistic diaspora.
“I hope that the narratives and connections woven into my collection inspire rich and meaningful conversations. I want people to delve into the stories behind the artworks—questions like the artists' career stages when they created the pieces, or the significance of introducing art to children from a young age. Ultimately, I aim for my collection to spark dialogues that extend beyond the artworks themselves.”
The Essence of the Collection
Her collection comprises significant works by artists such as Kaima Marie, a Houston-based artist whose photo collages speak volumes of her narrative and edginess, and Mor Gueye, an artist whose inception into her collection paints the story of Janice Bond's collecting genesis.
An anecdote detailing Janice's first acquisition captures the essence of her dedication; a modest painting caught her gaze at the old Dakar airport. "I stumbled upon a captivating yet modest painting at the old Dakar airport. Despite my inquiries, I couldn't immediately find anyone knowledgeable about the artist. Thankfully, one of my mentors arranged for his son to escort me to the village where Mor Gueye, the artist whose name adorned the painting, had his studio. Although Mor Gueye was away with his family at the time, his apprentices were working there. I observed a few pieces and acquired them."
Through this serendipitous trail that led to Mor Gueye's studio, she not only acquired the painting but also an invaluable experience that rooted her future in art collection—a memorable intersection of destiny and design.
“There's an undeniable blend of narrative, skill, and edginess in her clean execution that compelled me to acquire her work.”
Nurturing Emerging Talent and Seasoned Artists
Janice Bond's goals extend to becoming a fount of support for artists and museums seeking to diversify their collections with works from black diasporas. She envisions a future where her collection advances from personal confines to an institutional embodiment—an archive igniting conversations and sparking creativity.
"I envision my collection evolving into more than just a personal endeavor. I aspire to become a significant patron, supporting a select group of museums in their efforts to collect and exhibit artworks beyond the confines of my own walls.
“I aim for my collection to serve as both an archive and a catalyst for nurturing emerging artists while preserving and promoting the works of mid-career to master artists from various diasporas."
The expectation is that this art collection kindles dialogues encompassing the diverse stages of artist careers, the inculturation of art appreciation in the young, and the intersectional stories that each piece represents. For Janice, each artwork isn't simply an object of visual delight; it is a node within a larger narrative—one that invites inquiry, connection, and understanding.
Vignettes of Acquisition
The journey to becoming a comfortable art collector began with a transformative encounter at an art opening. Meeting Patric McCoy from Diasporal Rhythms shifted Janices perspective, leading to embracing the collector identity organically.
"I recall attending an art opening at Chicago State University where I had the pleasure of meeting the esteemed collector Patric McCoy of the collector’s group, Diasporal Rhythms. He graciously shared his insights on fundamental queries like "How do I know if I am an art collector?" and "How do you collect art?" His wisdom altered my perspective on the artworks in my home, and from that moment, I embraced my identity as a collector. The process unfolded organically thereafter."
“I don't have a single favorite—I cherish each piece for its unique qualities, much like how one appreciates different genres of music at various times.“
The Role and Contribution to the Art World
Janice Bond's influence stretches into ART IS BOND, the contemporary art museum she directs in Houston’s Montrose District. Through her passion, this space has flourished into a bastion of artistic experimentation and expression. Her contribution lies not just in the accumulation of art but in her ability to blend stewardship with advocacy, fostering environments where art and community resonate in harmony.
Through Janice's remarkable collection and her pivotal role in the art world, her impact on global black art continues to grow. Her collection represents a beacon that promises to bring about enduring change and establish a legacy of inclusivity and diversity within the artistic narrative.
