NATEE UTARIT (b. Thailand 1970) The fragment and the sublime no. 2 oil on canvas 47 1/4 x 39 3/8 in. (120 x 100 cm.) Estimate: HK$32,000-50,000 (US$4,100-6,400)

How is local (Singaporean) demand for this Art?
We see very encouraging trend of younger, better educated and wider exposed individuals entering the market. One interesting characteristic of the group is that they tend to look beyond the home country and focus on the bigger picture such as Asia Contemporary Art instead of just exclusively Singaporean.

Which countries Art are showing the most interest at auction and why?
For SEA contemporary - Indonesian and Thai contemporary artists are getting more attention mainly due to the bigger selection afforded by the 2 countries.

Which countries have the greatest potential in the future?
Personally I think Indonesia, Thai and the Philippines are showing the greatest potential presently but we also find exciting and original works coming from Singapore and Malaysia.

What homework should collectors do before purchasing in this field?
Greater exposure would lead to better understanding, hence it is very important to collectors to read about art, visit galleries, exhibitions and museums as often as possible. To be attracted to a specific artist is the first step and one should strive to first understand the 'repertoire' of the artist; the previous works and the present works of the artist. Secondly, it is important to place the work of the artist in the context of the home market and then move on to the regional market and even the international market. This is to avoid overpaying for a mediocre work or decorative work due to limited exposure, which is a very common mistake made by new collectors.

What do you say to prospective buyers who are buying just for investment purposes?
Most collectors I know who only collect for the purpose of investment usually end up with a 'huge' collection of quantity and no quality. It is very rare for one to invest in art correctly and wisely without any prior knowledge or interest in the field. It is an addictive hobby, I do know of quite a few collectors who started the collection for investment ended up with a nurtured interests and passion in art. Investment in art and buying for the love of art are not mutually exclusive but investing blindly in any field with no knowledge and interest is never a wise thing to do.