© Leigh Beisch - http://www.leighbeich.com
For those of you who don’t know Ilona, you should. She is one of the smartest, wittiest and most interesting art buyers out there. Her Facebook posts alone make me laugh out loud. When I first met her, it was at a portfolio show I was hosting and we spent the time talking and getting to know each other. Her stories were so interesting and her wit unmatched. I knew when I left I had made a friend.
When I asked her to contribute to our Solving Mysteries series, she did not hesitate. Here is what she had to say.
How do you search for photography nowadays?
I start with people I met and worked with. Then I look through my promo cards. I am sure I am the only art buyer that actually loves promo cards. There is something that I love about physically going through them and looking for the right fit. Then, I hit 51,265,381 sites I have bookmarked on my computer. I also do look through the Workbook.
Where do you find inspiration?
My inspiration comes from creatives. They are the ones with brilliant idea. I am there to understand and translate them into a possible visual.
What are you reading online?
I have a lot of photographer “friends” on facebook. If I have a minute, I like seeing their latest shoot or a blog entry. I also love Photo District News and read it cover to cover.
What are photographers doing lately to stand out from their competitors?
Mmmmm. Red Velvet cupcakes always win my attention. I am kidding (partially). I think it is important for photographers and art buyers to meet. Once you’ve heard a story behind a picture or shared a joke, it’s hard to forget that person.
What does your client value most from a photographer? Does that differ from what you value? And, has that changed over the years?
Listening, cooperation, down to earth attitude, speed and great craft service.:) I don’t know about “over the years” since I am still so very young.:)