The Aesthete is a curated community for discerning collectors. Founded on the belief that art is the cornerstone of culture, we bring together emerging and established collectors to deepen their engagement with the vibrant world of South Asian art.
Our role is that of your dedicated curator and guide. We move beyond mere access to provide context, connection, and a carefully considered pathway into the ecosystem. For our members, this means:
- Curated Access: Acquire premier works through our private sales and discover exceptional collectibles, all vetted by our expert advisors.
- Immersive Experiences: Journey with us on bespoke trips to South Asia and beyond, and enjoy guided visits to leading international art fairs and biennials.
- Expert Stewardship: Manage your collection with confidence through our comprehensive services, including acquisition strategy, valuation, and resale.
- Purposeful Connection: Engage in meaningful dialogue at our private events and leverage our network for strategic philanthropic giving to South Asian non-profits.
We nurture and sustain the entire ecosystem of South Asian art, by building a dynamic collector community and a robust marketplace, we are working to ensure its preeminence and longevity. We believe that art has the power to build bridges, foster profound belonging, and help us navigate a world of many cultures. At The Aesthete, we are not just collecting art; we are stewarding a cultural legacy, together.
About the Founder
A lifelong engagement with art is Renuka Sawhney's inheritance and her life's work. Shaped by Shalini Sawhney— the founder of Mumbai's pioneering gallery, The Guild—Renuka has dedicated her career to building bridges for South Asian art on a global stage. As the founder and director of The Guild New York, she cultivated a vital presence for the gallery internationally. She then pivoted to the nonprofit sector, where she leveraged her expertise to help organizations and philanthropists forge impactful partnerships supporting the arts and social advocacy. This rare dual perspective—from the commercial gallery world to the mission-driven philanthropic sector—culminated in the creation of The Aesthete. The platform is the embodiment of her belief in the power of community to sustain a vibrant cultural ecosystem. Through her writing on Scrapbook, her Substack, she continues to examine how art informs and is informed by the complex forces of history and economics
Contact: Renuka at Renuka@aesthete.club to enquire about membership.