Power of Art

Hosted by Sneha Shah

From artists to neuroscientists, Power of Art, features leading voices exploring how art shapes identity, well-being, and the world we live in. It guides listeners on a journey to better understand the power of art on our lives, wellbeing and how each of us can learn to live better with art. snehashahart.substack.com

Episodes

  1. Aug 18

    Episode 5: How to build a legacy art collection with Sally Eugenia Schwartz

    Sally Eugenia Schwartz is a young voice in the contemporary art collecting circuit. Forging her own path as a dynamic young collector within South Asia. Power of Art host Sneha Shah speaks with London-based collector, tech entrepreneur, and MoMA International Council member Sally Eugenia Schwartz about how she built a personal collection rooted in South Asian contemporary art. The conversation explores how her family’s collecting history shaped her eye, why she treats collecting as a form of artistic practice, and how she balances intuition, research, and discipline when buying work. Sally also shares how she discovers artists through collections, studios, Instagram, and regional fairs, plus how she thinks about pricing, gallery relationships, and living with art in a 600 square foot apartment. If you care about collecting, artist patronage, or simply learning how to look more carefully, this episode offers a clear, practical lens. In this episode, we go deeper, key insights: * Collecting is not about ownership, it is about stewardship * The best collections are built by honouring an artist over time, not by chasing market signals * Taste is trained by immersion, not by theory * A collector should act like a patron, not a negotiator * Buying young artists is a bet on seriousness, not pedigree * Great art should express itself before you can explain it * Living with art is a curatorial practice, not a storage problem Stay Connected: Follow Sneha Shah: Instagram | LinkedIn Follow Sally Eugenia Schwartz: Instagram | LinkedIn Subscribe to The Power of Art so you never miss an episode. Get full access to Sneha’s Substack at snehashahart.substack.com/subscribe

    Episode 5: How to build a legacy art collection with Sally Eugenia Schwartz
  2. 08/11/2025

    Episode 3: June Mineyama-Smithson in conversation with Sneha Shah on spreading optimism through art.

    In this episode of Power of Art, art expert and host Sneha Shah speaks with June Mineyama-Smithson, who shares her inspiring journey from working in the airline industry to becoming a web and graphic designer, and ultimately evolving into an artist known for her bold and optimistic designs. She shares how her unique path has shaped her understanding of creativity and personal growth, and elaborates on her artistic platform 'Mamu,' explaining its origins and her mission to spread optimism through vibrant patterns and colors. June also dives into her collaboration with neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart, where they explored the intersection of art and science to induce happiness through visual art, and discussed the significance of storytelling in art and design. Stay to the end for June’s insights on overcoming creative blocks and integrating beauty and optimism into everyday life - a much needed inspo for many artists.In this episode:June's Career Journey & The Birth of Mamu Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life Spreading Optimism Through Art The Science Behind Art and Emotions Navigating Creative Blocks with Meditation and Perspective Art and Neuroscience Collaboration Dream Project Collaboration Combining Art and Science & Creating Optimistic Artwork Art as a Collectible Experience Storytelling in Art and Design Blending Heritage with Modern Life Challenges and Optimism in Today's World Stay Connected:Follow Sneha Shah: Instagram | LinkedIn Follow June Mineyama-Smithson: Instagram | LinkedIn Subscribe to The Power of Art so you never miss an episode. Get full access to Sneha’s Substack at snehashahart.substack.com/subscribe

    Episode 3: June Mineyama-Smithson in conversation with Sneha Shah on spreading optimism through art.
  3. 07/19/2025

    Episode 2: Exploring the Science of Beauty with Prof. Semir Zeki

    Exploring the Science of Beauty with Prof. Semir Zeki In this episode of Power of Art, art expert and host Sneha Shah speaks with Prof. Semir Zeki about his research in the field of neuroaesthetics, a branch of neurobiology focused on understanding the neural mechanisms behind the experience of beauty. He shares personal anecdotes that spurred his interest in the field and delves into how neuroscience can explain subjective experiences of beauty, emotional responses to art, and the universal aspects of aesthetic appreciation. The discussion touches on the influence of cultural and biological factors on perceptions of beauty, the therapeutic potential of art, and the future of neuroaesthetics in understanding human pleasure and wellbeing.In this episode:What is Neuroaesthetics? Transcendental Experiences in Art Biological Beauty and Evolution Fickle Collectors and the Value of Art Gut Feelings and Art Appreciation Defining Beauty in Neurobiological Terms The Universality of Beauty Across Cultures The Role of Neuroaesthetics in Understanding Beauty Art's Healing Properties and Mental Wellbeing The Intersection of Architecture and Beauty The Future of Neuroaesthetics The Neuroscience of Beauty and Creativity Stay Connected:Follow Sneha Shah: Instagram | LinkedIn  Follow Prof. Semir Zeki's work here. Subscribe to The Power of Art so you never miss an episode. Get full access to Sneha’s Substack at snehashahart.substack.com/subscribe

  4. 06/26/2025

    Episode 1: Transforming Spaces: Art in Hospitality with Willow Kemp

    In this episode of Power of Art, art expert and host Sneha Shah speaks with Willow Kemp, a celebrated interior architect, design director, and art curator. They discuss Willow's background and journey in art and design, including her education at Cambridge and the K Academy. Willow shares insights on how she approaches art as a placemaking tool, her creative process, and her work with Firmdale Hotels and Kit Kemp Design Studio. The conversation delves into topics like curating art for hospitality spaces, collaborating with artists, and the importance of emotional resonance in design. Both offer practical advice on starting an art collection and the value of pursuing what you love.In this episode:A Journey in Art and Design Willow's Personal Relationship with Art The Power of Art in Transforming Spaces Childhood Inspirations and Early Art Experiences From Architecture to Sculpture: Willow's Educational Path Merging Artistic Practices in Interior Design The Ethos of Kit Kemp Design Studio Curating Art for Hospitality Spaces Collaborations and Commissions Emotional Impact of Art and Design Championing Emerging Artists Revisiting and Refreshing Art in Hotels Personal Creative Journey and Challenges Guided Art Tours and Public Engagement Legacy and Lasting Impact of Art Stay Connected:Follow Sneha Shah: Instagram | LinkedIn Follow Willow Kemp: Instagram | LinkedIn Subscribe to The Power of Art so you never miss an episode. Get full access to Sneha’s Substack at snehashahart.substack.com/subscribe

    Episode 1: Transforming Spaces: Art in Hospitality with Willow Kemp

About

From artists to neuroscientists, Power of Art, features leading voices exploring how art shapes identity, well-being, and the world we live in. It guides listeners on a journey to better understand the power of art on our lives, wellbeing and how each of us can learn to live better with art. snehashahart.substack.com