Conversation with Villy Kamperoglou
Sales Executive at Roche Bobois
What drew you to pursue a career in the art world?
For as long as I can remember, myself, my parents and my beloved grandmother have collected art. Their emotional connection with things, that also carried a special meaning for them instilled within me an interest in collecting. While I was doing my undergraduate law studies, I was intrigued by the possibilities and potential experiences that someone could get from this industry. I soon started my first professional experience in the auction field; it was in a local auction house in the city where I was studying. The way that people were appreciating art and the ongoing process of helping clients with collecting was the beginning of a very exciting journey for me. I feel like anyone that is part of this same journey is able to see lots of new things and lots of possibilities. Most important are the people you can meet on this journey, and this is what has made it so special.
What has been the most important lesson you've learned in your career journey?
Being persistent, never giving up and grasping every single experience to your advantage. At the beginning of your career, you might not be able to see the results, however later on this will be your passport to fulfil your professional goals. I would say that for me, networking was very important. Try to meet people by going to art fairs, exhibitions and speaking with people that have relevant experience in the field.
What is your favourite art world space that you keep coming back to?
The David Aaron Gallery specialise in ancient art and antiquities. The history of the space and how they approach ancient art is something that feels really special. They have a range of cultures from Greek, Egyptian, Asian and Islamic and I feel that whoever goes to the gallery has a truly memorable experience.
Which female artists, living or dead, would you invite to a dinner party and why?
I would be thrilled to invite Louise Bourgeois. Art is keeping her sanity and the way she expresses these emotions in her works of art is something really remarkable. I would be really interested to ask her how - since she has lived for so many decades - she sees new artists expressing themselves with their emotions. One of my favourite quotes from her is “I do; I undo; I redo,” which shows people that we are responsible for our emotions.