Redefining Art Collecting

The art world is shifting. As digital spaces become central to how we discover, share and acquire work, so too are new models emerging that prioritise access, transparency and ethical engagement. Ivy Rose Consulting (IVY RC.), founded by art consultant Ivy Rose Ritchens, sits firmly in this space, offering a contemporary approach to collecting that values curatorial integrity while meeting the next generation of collectors where they are.

Born from a desire to demystify the market and champion emerging talent, IVY RC.’s digital initiative PROJECT 02 connects early-career artists from Australia and New Zealand with new collectors in an open, accessible and price-transparent environment. In this interview, Ivy shares her motivation for launching the consultancy, what she looks for in early-career artists and how PROJECT 02 is building a more inclusive future for collecting.

What inspired you to start IVY RC.?

I founded IVY RC. to bring a new perspective to fine art consultancy, one that embraces transparency, new modes of engagement and a strong digital presence, while remaining grounded in integrity and market expertise. After years working in commercial galleries, I saw how many collectors, particularly those new to the space, felt intimidated or excluded by traditional art world structures. IVY RC. represents my drive to change that. We work closely with clients to build meaningful, future-focused collections with a strong ethical and curatorial framework.

What is  PROJECT 02, and how does it support emerging talent?

PROJECT 02 is a digital initiative by IVY RC., created to platform early-career artists from across Australia and New Zealand. It offers a curated, accessible space for collectors to discover and acquire original works without barriers. By directly connecting collectors with emerging talent, PROJECT 02 fosters new collecting habits while supporting sustainable creative careers. It provides artists with professional visibility, exhibition opportunities and access to new audiences.

What do you look for when curating works by early-career artists?

Clarity of intention is key. Whether it's expressed through concept, materiality or form, I’m drawn to artists who are deeply engaged in their practice and who are thinking about how their work fits into broader dialogues. I also look for a strong sense of authorship artists, offering something unique and distinctive.

What advice would you give to emerging artists looking to connect with collectors or consultants?

Be proactive in how you engage, both digitally and in person, and be prepared to pitch your practice. Keep your documentation up to date: clear artist statements, high-quality imagery and an organised CV. Just as importantly, develop your own language around your work. Collectors and consultants want to understand not just what you make, but why you make it. Relationships in this space take time to build, so stay visible and consistent, and trust that genuine connections will come.

What advice would you give emerging collectors looking to start?

You don’t need to wait for the “perfect” time or a huge budget to begin. Trust your instincts, take your time to learn and start small if you need to. Explore platforms like PROJECT 02, attend artist talks, visit spaces that show early-career work and ask questions. A good consultant can also help you navigate the landscape strategically and can help you grow a collection with intention and value.

What trends are you seeing in the Australian art market right now?

There’s growing interest in collecting work that reflects personal values or a brand’s ethos, rather than just aesthetics. Supporting local artists, engaging with socially conscious practices and building direct relationships with creatives all play a role in collecting decisions today. 

How can people connect or work with you?

Whether you're a new collector seeking tailored guidance or simply curious about emerging artists, there are a few ways to get started:

• For personalised advice and acquisition support, visit our website and book a 30-minute consultation with IVY RC. We offer strategic, considered guidance tailored to your collecting goals.

• To explore and buy original works from early-career artists, jump online and start browsing PROJECT 02, our curated digital platform.

You can also follow along on Instagram or reach out directly via email, we’re always open to conversations.

→ Visit ivyrc.com.au /  project02.ivyrc.com.au

→ Follow @ivyrconsulting 

Platform is an interview series by ArtSupport Australia, where founder Sophia D'Urso chats to great people doing important, innovative, and impactful work in the arts. From independent artists to cultural leaders and creative entrepreneurs, these conversations spotlight those shaping a stronger, more sustainable arts sector.