Vancouver-based artist Christos Dikeakos offers a rare glimpse into the intimate world of art collectors with his latest exhibition, The Collectors, presented at Griffin Art Projects from September 20 to December 14, 2025. As part of the gallery’s 10th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition explores the personal relationships between collectors and their artworks, providing a nuanced portrait of those who shape the art landscape locally and internationally.
Over the past decade, Dikeakos has meticulously documented the lives of collectors, capturing both their public and private interactions with art. Working closely with photographer Barrie Jones, he has created over forty portraits that transcend simple documentation, revealing the passion, dedication, and stories behind each collection. From seasoned curators to private patrons and passionate art lovers, The Collectors showcases a diverse spectrum of individuals whose collections span a wide variety of media, styles, and historical periods.
Dikeakos approaches portraiture with a level of intimacy and familiarity that distinguishes his work. He emphasizes that he personally knows most of the collectors he photographed, which allows him to capture subtle gestures and expressions that reflect the deep bond between collector and collection. This personal connection brings each portrait to life, offering viewers an authentic sense of the collector’s personality and their unique approach to art. The exhibition highlights the various ways collectors engage with their acquisitions, from meticulously curated private galleries to eclectic personal arrangements, prompting reflection on how private collecting shapes public art narratives and contributes to cultural heritage.
The exhibition extends beyond static portraits, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the stories and experiences behind the collections. Through Dikeakos’s lens, the focus shifts from the artworks themselves to the people who preserve, promote, and live with them. This perspective challenges traditional narratives in the art world, encouraging a broader understanding of the ecosystem in which collectors play a pivotal role. Each image not only documents an individual but also illuminates the emotional and intellectual labor involved in curating a personal collection.
The Collectors also engages the public through a series of complementary events, including panel discussions, artist-led tours, and film screenings that delve deeper into themes of collecting and cultural legacy. These programs offer audiences the opportunity to explore the motivations, philosophies, and cultural impact of art collectors in a more interactive and immersive way.
Visitors leave the exhibition not only with an appreciation of the aesthetic value of the works but also with insight into the personal connections and narratives that make collecting an art form in itself.
Ultimately, Dikeakos’s exhibition is a thoughtful meditation on the intersection of art, identity, and ownership. It celebrates the individuals whose passion and vision shape the art world while inviting viewers to consider the role of collectors in preserving cultural history. The Collectors offers an enriching experience that goes beyond the canvas, encouraging reflection on the human stories that animate the art we admire. For anyone curious about the hidden layers of the art world, this exhibition provides a compelling and intimate lens into a fascinating community of art enthusiasts.
Dan Baltag
dbaltag@my.bcit.ca