Mana Jalalian on the ‘democratization of art’ and working with a French heritage brand
DUBAI: Art collector Mana Jalalian made her mark on interior design in the UAE by bringing renowned French manufacturer Moissonnier to the country for the first time, but the entrepreneur is also known for sharing her substantial art collection with the world.
Over the past 16 years she has amassed a collection of more than 400 works of art, a number of which have been exhibited at museums and biennales including La Biennale di Venezia, Musee d’Art Moderne de Paris, MAXXI Museum in Rome, Davis Museum in Boston, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C.
“Sharing my collection with the public is a deeply meaningful endeavor for me,” the US Canadian told Arab News. “I believe in the democratization of art, making it accessible to diverse audiences and fostering a greater appreciation for creativity and expression.”
When it comes to sourcing additions to her collection, Jalalian says she is driven by personal taste.
“Firstly, I gravitate towards pieces that resonate with me on an emotional or intellectual level,” she said.
“Whether it’s a specific theme, artistic technique or cultural context, I seek artworks that evoke a strong response. Additionally, I consider the diversity of my collection, aiming to encompass various regions, styles, and mediums.
She highlighted a painting by Iranian poet Sohrab Sepehri as a particularly precious piece and added: “Another cherished artwork is the Moissonnier Home’s L.XV Chest-of-Drawers, Cabinet 573. Its fusion of classic elegance with contemporary flair encapsulates the essence of my design philosophy.”
Moissonnier has been known for creating high-end furniture since 1885. Jalalian acquired exclusive distribution rights in North America, paving the way for her first flagship showroom in Vancouver, Canada, in 2016. Now, she has another flagship store in the UAE.
“Moissonnier’s distinctive aesthetic resonates well with clients in the UAE, thanks to its timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship,” she said.
She also teased expansion into Saudi Arabia: “By bringing Moissonnier to Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, we aim to cater to the sophisticated tastes of customers who appreciate the fusion of heritage and innovation in furniture design.”
