Selection Committee Spotlight – James Mackie, Interior Designer and Founder, J. James Mackie
James Mackie is an Interior decorator, art advisor and founder of J. James Mackie Ltd. Prior to establishing the company James held senior positions in the international auction houses, most recently as Head of the Impressionist & Modern Art Department at Sotheby’s in London. The company today is founded on James’ years of experience, expertise and his academic background in architectural history and decorative arts. James was named in House & Garden magazine’s Top 100 Interior Designers 2023.
- What motivated you to join the 2023 LAPADA Berkeley Fair Selection Committee?
I have been a passionate advocate for antiques for many years and a regular visitor at the fair so I was of course delighted to be asked to join the selection committee.
- As a judge for the LAPADA Fair’s Best Stand and Object Awards, what specific qualities are you seeking in a winner?
In terms of looking at the stands I’ll be thinking about originality of presentation through both the arrangement of the objects and the backdrop against which they are shown. I’m particularly interested in stands that have a narrative to share with visitors. Regarding objects I always consider beauty, romance, provenance and quality.
