Sirish Rao and Eva Respini share a few of their favourite things.
As interim co-CEOs of the Vancouver Art Gallery, Sirish Rao and Eva Respini know a thing or two about curating a meaningful collection—so who better to ask about great local buys and favourite finds? At the gallery right now, you’ll find That Green Ideal: Emily Carr and the Idea of Nature, and Future Geographies: Art in the Century of Climate Change, spotlighting work from more than 30 contemporary artists examining the intersection of sustainability and art-making; here, you’ll find stylish sneakers, a thought-provoking read and a rug as pretty as a picture.
1. Elizabeth McIntosh Print
E.R.: Elizabeth McIntosh is one of Vancouver’s most exciting painters. She shows with Catriona Jeffries Gallery, but I bought a colourful, graphic print by her from the Vancouver Art Gallery store, which has a great selection of artist editions at reasonable prices. $600, shop.vanartgallery.bc.ca
2. The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard
S.R.: I am re-reading one of my favourite books, Gaston Bachelard’s Poetics of Space. It is a lyrical, deep exploration of the idea of home. From the role of the cellar to the potential of the attic, he shows us how our spaces shape our thoughts, memories and dreams. One of the best places to stumble upon treasures like this is Nooroongji Books on Granville Island. Run by the visionary Jennifer Kim, they specialize in language, philosophy, art and home. $26, nooroongji.ca
3. Loewe x On Cloud Cloudsolo Sneakers
E.R.: Loewe x On Cloud collaboration sneakers are my obsession. I have a few pairs in different colours and wear them constantly. The bright blue pair is my favourite and I always get compliments when I wear them. I grew up in Switzerland, so I’ve long loved the On brand, and when I visit I try to pick up a pair there, where they’re more affordable. $950, holtrenfrew.ca
4. The Indian Pantry Malvani Masala Spice Mix
S.R.: Whenever I miss my birthplace in Southern India, I reach for the Malvani Masala from Indian Pantry, created by Chef Tushar (of Kavita fame). Use it to make a curry, and you’ll immediately be transported to the beachside kitchens of South India—how can you go wrong with fennel, cumin, caraway, cinnamon, turmeric and star anise? $10, theindianpantry.ca
5. Vintage Omega Geneve Dynamic Watch
S.R. I wear my father’s Omega Geneve Dynamic every day. It’s going strong since he bought it in 1969, and keeps him close to me. It’s a timeless design. You need to care for these old pieces though—and Norbert Zerbes, a.k.a. the German Watchmaker, is an artisan from another era, tucked away in the Yaletown shops on Homer Street. He’s the caretaker of time. Resale price varies, omega.ca
6. Fluance RT81 Elite High-Fidelity Vinyl Turntable
E.R.: I treasure my turntable. It is from Fluance and the sound is warm and full, and the walnut finish adds a mid-century touch. $350, bestbuy.ca
7. MDT Mobilier Halte Coffee Table
E.R.: I have an electric green coffee table that lifts my spirits every time I look at it. The colour is unapologetic and energetic. It is designed by Montreal-based studio MDT Mobilier and is available online through Simons Maison. $875, simons.ca
8. Persian Carpet
S.R.: Our family time is anchored by a Shiraz carpet beautifully woven by the Qashqai tribe in Iran. We bought it years ago at the legendary East India Carpets, which is about to close after 75 years. I can look at it forever, and new patterns emerge. $6,300, eastindiacarpets.com
