THE SPIRIT OF VILLA AMERICA

Known as “Masters of the Art of Living,” Sara and Gerald Murphy were brought together by their love of the arts as well as their devotion to one another. The talented and free-spirited Americans broke from the constraints of a New York family and society, moving to Paris and the French Riviera in the 1920’s. There, amidst a glittering swirl of Jazz, Cocktails, and Art, they attracted a remarkable constellation of the era’s luminaries -- Picasso, Hemingway, Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Cole Porter, Dorothy Parker, Fernand Leger, and Jean Cocteau -- all frequent companions of Sara and Gerald and guests at the Villa America, the name the Murphy’s gave to their home on the Riviera. As individual stars coming together and cross-pollinating, these kindred spirits of the Lost Generation undeniably influenced the art and culture of their times…fittingly they are immortalized in one another’s masterpieces as well as numerous books and articles.

Susan's vision of The Villa America Fine Art conjures the passion, energy and community-building of the Murphy’s. The art world is still filled with charismatic characters and adventures waiting to happen. You are invited to join and delight in the creative experience as The Villa America Fine Art brings you a moveable feast of amazing art and the brilliant people who make and live it, presenting painting, photography and sculpture from centuries old to the newest of the new with a signature style evoking the authentic spirit of the salons and cafes of a bygone era.

OWNER/DIRECTOR - SUSAN NELLY

Susan Nelly began her career at Sotheby's Auction House after studying Art History, Film and Television at New York University Tisch School of the Arts. The interceding decades have seen her employed at some of the most exclusive galleries and prominent auction houses in New York City, where she gained invaluable experience and connections and advanced to leadership positions at uptown mainstays including Spanierman Gallery and Bonham’s International Auction House.

Throughout her career Susan has been dedicated to the process of matching discerning new and seasoned collectors with the finest works of art to enhance their lifestyles, and she continues to use her unparalled resources to do so. A respected member of the Fine Art community, she collaborates and networks with it’s most prominent people and organizations. Susan is a founding New York member of AWAD, The Association of Women Art Dealers, and was elected in 2009 to ARTTABLE, The Leadership Organization for Professional Women in the Visual Arts.

A recognized expert in acquisitions in the secondary market -- specializing in American and European fine art including such artists as John Singer Sargent, James McNeill Whistler, Gertrude Vanderbildt Whitney, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, George Condo, Horst B.Horst, William Klein -- Susan's sources include estates, dealers, private collections and auctions. She is also a strong supporter of contemporary artists. Her keen eye for the finest work, coupled with her energy and enthusiasm, continue to connect her with many of the most important painters, sculptors and photographers in practice today, in New York and Internationally.

It is her love of the art world and it’s people that is Susan’s greatest strength. Susan is the ultimate art insider, opening doors not open to the public to all her clients. She embodies the Villa America Spirit, sharing the depth of her knowledge and enthusiasm and imparting an air of adventure to your unique and memorable experience in acquiring art.