Questions and Answers with Paul Connor from The Connor Contemporary
a) When did you first realise that you wanted to become an collector of art and then own a gallery?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve not only collected art but drawn profound inspiration from it. My admiration for artists runs deep, and I am convinced that art is such a powerful medium that it can genuinely transform culture for the better. Art is a vivid flash of the human spirit, speaking to the very heart of what it means to be human—where creativity, imagination, and skill come together to create thought‑provoking beauty. As a gallery owner, my purpose is to share this passion and champion the artists who make this work possible. The world needs more beauty, more imagination, and more artistic endeavour—and I am committed to nurturing and showcasing exactly that.'
(b) Is there a piece of art or artist that changed your life, if so what/who was/is it and how did your life change?
'For more than 50 years, I’ve been captivated by art and the people who create it—yes, that does give my age away. I first lost myself in the shimmering worlds of Impressionism and the exquisite Japanese woodblock prints of the Ukiyo‑e period. Then, in 2012, I stepped into a gallery and encountered Candice Tripp’s “This Will Hurt Tomorrow,” and in that instant, everything changed. That single work didn’t just catch my eye; it completely altered the course of my life. It’s a striking example of an artist at the height of her powers—a sublime collision of colour, meticulous detail, and mature themes, all playfully embodied by otherworldly children in shadowy woods.
(c) How do you pick your art and artists?
For me, it’s simple: it all comes down to emotion. I need to feel that rush of awe—sometimes even a little jolt of shock. A work has to move me on a deeper level. Of course, the artist’s skill and the strength of the composition matter, but popularity or investment value have never guided my choices when I decide what to acquire or showcase.
(d) What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a life in art?
'Over the years, I’ve noticed a few defining qualities in the artists, performers, and athletes I admire most: unwavering dedication, quiet resilience, relentless determination, and a fierce passion and belief in their chosen path. I’m convinced that what you choose to pursue will not only be deeply meaningful to you, but will also create a positive impact in the world—making every sacrifice of time, energy, and resources truly worthwhile. I know I still have a journey ahead to build a gallery that is both financially strong and highly respected by the artists I represent, but I’m wholeheartedly committed to that vision.'
(e) Who is your favourite artist to why?
'No Comment'
(f) Where do you see your art gallery in 10 years?
'Bigger, better, brighter and bolder!! – In the years ahead, my greatest ambition is to earn the genuine respect of the artists I represent through unwavering ethics, honesty, and a shared passion for art. I aim to continue growing a community of dedicated collectors who value my guidance, trust my eye, and champion the gallery’s vision. Above all, I want to be in a position to introduce powerful work and talented artists to a much wider audience, inspiring more people to recognise just how vital and transformative art can be in our modern world.
(g) What question would you want to be asked in an interview about your art gallery?
“How can I dive deeper into the world of art?”
Our answer: immerse yourself. Explore online resources, browse your local library, and spend time in galleries and museums both nearby and further afield. Ask questions, connect with like‑minded enthusiasts, and join creative communities. The more you get involved, the more you’ll see, feel, and fall in love with the art around you. Let curiosity lead you—and be inspired.
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