Join us to hear this dynamic panel of passionate art collectors share their philosophies, how they connect with artists, and the ways they make purchasing decisions. From gallery openings and dinners to studio visits and even direct acquisitions, panelists will reveal the many paths that shape their collections. If you’re an artist, this is a chance to gain invaluable insights into the art ecosystem from the collector’s perspective.
The Collector's Eye: How Art Finds Its Home
Monday, September 29, 2025
7:00-8:30p
Each Panelist will begin with a brief introduction before diving into how they build and shape their collections: What sparks their interest in a new artist? How do they balance instinct with research when purchasing a piece? And what role do relationships—with galleries, curators, and artists themselves—play in the process?
GAVIN KENNEDY
Gavin Kennedy, moderator for this "Collector's Eye" panel, is a Boston- and Provincetown-based brand consultant, art collector, and arts patron. He serves as trustee and executive committee member at the Fine Arts Work Center and co-chair of the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) Advisory Board, in Boston, where he supports the next generation of artists and helps shape the contemporary art landscape. A longtime brand leader and storyteller with 25+ years of experience growing global brands at P&G, Dunkin’, and Campbell’s, Gavin has applied this expertise to the art world as founder of Emergent Art Advisory, a boutique firm that helps individual collectors and corporate clients navigate the evolving art market. The firm builds enduring collections that reflect both passion and investment goals, offering personalized guidance at every stage—from launching to expanding and managing collections with confidence and creativity.
ZACHARY COHEN
Zachary Cohen is a leader in the fight for social justice. With a focus on LGBTQ equality, Zachary has mobilized tens of millions of dollars and thousands of activists to push towards justice. Spanning a career with grassroots organizations and multi-national organizations, Zachary is the Deputy Executive Director of Development at the Ali Forney Center, the largest agency protecting LGBTQ youth from the harms of homelessness. Outside of his community organizing, Zachary is a lover of the arts and a collector of visual arts. Zachary has grown his collection by supporting primarily emerging artists early in their career.
STEVE CORKIN
Steve Corkin is a passionate art collector and patron dedicated to supporting young, emerging, and mid-career artists—especially those historically overlooked in the art world. Born in Boston, he began his career practicing law before transitioning into real estate investment advisory, serving as Managing Director at AEW Capital Management. Alongside his professional success, Corkin has consistently prioritized community service. He has served on numerous non-profit boards, including as Co-Chair of the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) in Boston, and continues to champion cultural and civic engagement as a trustee of Boston Children’s Hospital and the Robert Lloyd Corkin Charitable Foundation. Steve was recently honored by the Fine Arts Work Center in Boston.
MATHIEU O. GAULIN
Mathieu O. Gaulin is committed to activating and amplifying communities through the arts, arts education, and equitable access. He serves as a Trustee of the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) in Boston and as Co-Chair of the Boston Public Art Triennial, alongside other philanthropic initiatives that champion creativity and inclusion. An avid collector, Gaulin is passionate about supporting emerging and contemporary artists, reflecting his belief in the transformative power of art. Professionally, he is Senior Director at Boston Children’s Hospital and a national thought leader in medical staff administration and leadership. He is a recent alumnus of Harvard Business School’s Program for Leadership Development and a Fellow in Medical Services Professionalism through the National Association of Medical Staff Services.
We’ll explore the many ways collectors connect with artists—through gallery openings and dinners, studio visits, social media, and even direct purchases outside the gallery system. The Panelists will reflect on memorable experiences of buying directly from artists. In the face of a changing art market, the conversation will also highlight what new opportunities may be opening for emerging and mid-career artists—and how collectors are responding to this moment.