Collector Spotlight: David Maxwell

We are back with another Collector Spotlight, where we get a glimpse into some of the most exciting art collections from around the world. Join us as collectors share their insights, experiences, and invaluable advice on building and curating a meaningful collection. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this series aims to provide inspiration, tips, and a deeper understanding of what it means to collect art.

In our second spotlight, we speak with collector David Maxwell (https://www.instagram.com/davidmaxwell/), l, who has recently established The Flower Residency, a community-based residency that immerses artists in LA’s art scene. Maxwell’s [Art Alerts was the precursor to The Flower Residency, serving as a platform that supported artists through openings, interviews, and unboxings.

We chatted with David about The Flower Residency, his favourite artworks, advice on collecting, and more.

1. What was the very first artwork you purchased?

The first significant piece I collected was a piece by Jenny Holzer. The piece reads 'USE WHAT IS DOMINANT IN A CULTURE TO CHANGE IT QUICKLY.'

2. How would you describe your approach to collecting?

I want my collection to have an impact. Before, I wanted to collect works that were hard to get allocation for. Now, the opposite is true. I want to collect works that would not be collected if I didn’t want the piece. I want to collect from artists I believe in who I want to see continue to make art. I want to collect from galleries who I visit regularly and whose programmes I adore. I want strong narrative works that tell an elaborate story and make a statement that is immediately recognised.

3. Community is clearly very important to you. Can you discuss this in more detail?

The Flower Residency’s ultimate goal is to bring an artist to LA and help establish them within the local community. Creating this residency was a way to support artists beyond a digital following and to produce art in the physical world. For me, ‘collecting with the mob’ doesn’t allow for building a unique community. LA has a very cohesive community of emerging artists, participating in emerging studios like Canyon Castator’s Mohlief Studios and Ozzie Juarez’s TLALOC Studios, to name a few.

4. Do you have a favourite piece in your collection, and if so, what makes it special to you?

It’s so hard to pick a favourite piece. Fran Lebowitz said recently 'favourites are for children'. I like her sentiment in this video; the moment begins around 1:20.

I really love my Guardian Angel sculptures by Sydnie and Haylie Jimenez acquired from New Image Art. They are special to me because of their size and figuration, and the friendship I have with the Jimenez twins.

5. How did The Flower Residency evolve from Art Alerts?

I started Art Alerts as a channel to unbox art pieces and share information about artists. I wanted to showcase my collection as it grew and counter the assumption that I was buying art only to resell it. As the channel became more interview-focused, my community grew, and a residency was a natural next step. Becoming part of the narrative by helping to establish artists and developing their storylines became the backbone of The Flower Residency.

6. What advice do you have for someone who wants to start their own art collection but doesn’t know where to begin?

Start small when you begin to collect. You have to acquire a piece to really know how much you love it or if you’ll be filled with regret. Don’t blow your entire budget at once. Collect artworks that you can afford to make mistakes on. Your taste will improve dramatically as you collect more, so save your budget for when you’ve gained confidence in your taste and ability to collect things you love.

7. If you could acquire any artwork in the world, what would it be?

I would get a Spider by Louise Bourgeois.

8. What artists would you like to spotlight right now?

I only collect works by living artists, supporting them while they’re active so they can create more work. Right now, I want to spotlight Angela Fang, the current Flower Residency artist. Her work is incredible; she combines her American and Chinese roots, growing up in the American Midwest, into her major monochrome scenes.

If you missed it, check out our Collector Spotlight with Jo Yana, collector and curator of Marseille’s Gallery Jo Yana.

Photos courtesy of David Maxwell.