The Art Club Tbilisi officially launched yesterday with a private rooftop reception, bringing together art collectors, business leaders with an interest in art investment, art enthusiasts and other like-minded guests. The event introduced a new initiative of the recently established Art Foundation Anagi (AFA), which opened in September.
With this debut, Georgia now has its first collectors’ club of this scale, marking an important moment for the country’s growing art scene.
The Art Club Tbilisi aims to establish a structured, globally aligned environment for collectors, art lovers, and art professionals. Inspired by leading international art ecosystems, the club presents itself as a contemporary cultural platform with ambitions to cultivate a more connected and well-informed art community in Georgia.
As the foundation noted during the launch, the establishment of a collectors’ club of this type and ambition is a notable step forward for Georgia. The initiative reflects a growing institutional mindset, demonstrating the capacity not only to adopt global practices but also to introduce new trends and set standards within the local scene.
The club brings together individuals and organizations committed to pushing Georgian art forward and strengthening its cultural and economic weight. By creating a bridge between the business community and the arts, members help position Georgian art within leading international artistic and investment circles. The aim is to boost its global visibility and investment appeal, while supporting sustainable growth and the development of creative talent at home.
One of the first honorary members of The Art Club Tbilisi, Michael North, a capital markets expert and former executive at major international investment banks, emphasized the importance of professional guidance in art collecting. He noted that platforms such as The Art Club Tbilisi – provide collectors with an informed and reliable pathway into art investment and collection management.
“If you want to become an art collector, you must be systematic. Instead of relying solely on personal preference, it is essential to engage with galleries and seek advice from professional experts. Their guidance helps you understand what is recommended for you – especially when collecting is connected to investment or wealth considerations. It is simply a better way,” he explained.
As Georgia continues to integrate more fully into global cultural and creative networks, the launch of The Art Club Tbilisi represents a significant step toward a more mature, professional, and internationally connected art market. The founders and first club members are confident that the club is well positioned to become an influential force in shaping local trends and strengthening Georgia’s presence on the international art stage.
