There’s a quiet magic to collecting around the world. It happens in unexpected places—a sunlit atelier tucked down a Venetian canal, a centuries-old market filled with Moroccan tiles or a South African studio overlooking golden plains. These moments become memories, and the pieces we bring home become their tangible echoes.
When we live with art from other cultures, our interiors are no longer just designed—they’re composed like a symphony of experiences. This month, I’m highlighting a few timeless treasures—Moroccan tile, Italian glass, British art and antiques, African craft and Chinese porcelain and calligraphy—each offering beauty, history and an authentic sense of place.
Moroccan Tile
There’s a rhythmic poetry to Moroccan tile. Known as zellige, these hand-cut, glazed clay tiles are arranged in intricate geometric patterns reflecting centuries of Islamic design. Each tile is slightly irregular, creating a luminous, soulful texture. I love using them in an entryway or powder room, where their vivid colors and patterns make the ordinary feel extraordinary.
Italian Glass
Italy, and more specifically the island of Murano, is where glass became art. Hand-blown Murano glass has been treasured since the Renaissance for its clarity, fluid shapes and vibrant color. When we visited Murano, we hand-carried a 36-inch piece home from a maestro’s studio—it remains one of my most cherished treasures. Murano glass doesn’t just decorate; it glows from within. A single vase or pendant light can command a room with quiet elegance.
British Art & Antiques
There’s something grounding about British antiques. A Georgian chest or a Regency mirror brings legacy and grace to a modern room. But Britain is equally a hub of contemporary expression. Artists like Anish Kapoor and institutions like Tate Modern have helped shape a vibrant cultural movement. Mixing antique pieces with bold, modern works adds layers of sophistication and surprise.
African Craft
Africa is captivating travelers like never before, especially through the lens of South African safaris and cultural journeys. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, local artisan communities offer exquisite woven baskets, carved stools, ceramics, beadwork and textiles. Each piece carries the energy of the land and its people. These handcrafted works infuse interiors with texture, warmth and soul—perfect in spaces with natural palettes and clean architecture. They remind us that art can feel both ancient and modern at once.
Chinese Porcelain & Calligraphy
Chinese porcelain, with its iconic blue-and-white motifs, has graced homes for centuries. Its beauty is timeless—elegant, refined and endlessly versatile. But another essential layer of Chinese and Asian artistry is calligraphy. These works, often created on delicate rice paper, embody centuries of philosophical and aesthetic tradition. Collecting a calligraphy piece and framing it with a modern touch—perhaps floating in glass or set in a minimal frame—creates a striking, serene focal point. It’s a way to honor heritage while embracing contemporary design.
Tips for Sourcing Authentic Pieces
- Buy directly from artisans or established galleries when possible.
- Ask about provenance and techniques—stories are part of the value.
- Protect fragile works with proper shipping and insurance.
- Start with one meaningful piece rather than collecting in bulk.
- Layer new acquisitions with existing pieces for a collected, personal look.
- Visit museums and galleries while traveling—they deepen understanding and spark inspiration.
Collecting globally isn’t just about decoration—it’s about connection. Some of my most cherished pieces were chosen after standing before extraordinary works of art in museums around the world. When your home reflects the cultures and stories that move you, it becomes more than a space. It becomes a living, breathing reflection of your journey.
Faith Berger is a St. Louis-based artist, working in acrylic, mixed medium collage. Visit her website at faithberger.com, find her on Instagram faithberger.art, or reach her via email at faith@faithberger.com.