Narda van 't Veer has always had a real passion for fashion photography. She was a big fan of Frenchman Guy Bourdin, who had revolutionized the field in the 1960s and 1970s. But over time, van 't Veer became more deeply invested in the medium's various other strands. At first, she mainly collected nude photography, then she discovered her fondness for experimental and provocative work. Today, the Dutchwoman's private home showcases one of the most fascinating and extensive collections of photography, including artists such as Risk Hazekamp, Robin de Puy, Michael Bailey-Gates, and Collier Schorr, as well as established artists like Helmut Newton, and the duo Inez van Lamsweerde & Vinoodh Matadin. For van 't Veer, who also runs The Ravestijn Gallery, it's important that the works interact with each other.

We interviewed her to find out more about her and her collection.

What artwork initiated your collection?

I know exactly what work, namely, it was in 1987 by the Belgian photographer Karel Fonteyne.

What is a rather controversial artwork within your collection?

I think a lot of my collection could be experienced as controversial, but I have never looked upon it in such a way. Many of the works in my collection depict nudity and gender issues. I have always looked for the aesthetics and the beauty of a piece rather than the controversy.

How do you benefit from being in exchange with other art collectors?

I have always enjoyed getting in contact with other collectors – but it also always tells me I have been right in choosing my own path and way of working. Because of this, I believe I have an extraordinary collection, distinguishing itself from others through the avant-garde and provocative approach I have.

Tell us three things to consider before starting an art collection.

1 – I never really considered myself an art collector, until other people mentioned it. I think the most important thing is that you act out of love for art, and in my case photography in particular. It is something I sort of became overtime, not something I intentionally worked towards.
2 – Because I narrowed down the theme of my collection, it is a logical collection of artworks. So stick to the theme / narrative.
3 – Consider the space you need to really enjoy the works from your collection. I have always really enjoyed being able to experience the works I have daily, rather than putting them away in a drawer or storage.

How do you ensure your collection becomes timeless?

A very hard question, but I think I did it through evolving along with the art world. I have been collecting art, especially photography, since I can remember – my taste has evolved overtime. I can nowadays enjoy pieces of art I did not, let’s say 30 years ago, and the other way around. I believe my collection is timeless as my taste is timeless as well. Besides, I have works by a very broad selection of artists, ranging from established, world-famous photographers to up and coming fresh faces on the scene.