Art
CULTURAL ADVOCATE
“As a dedicated patron of the arts and champion of creatives, I aim to enrich our cultural institutions with vibrancy and diversity.”
Art Biography
Based in San Francisco, Paul Henderson is a social justice attorney, art advocate, and collector focused on art intentionally reflecting broader narratives for communities of color. His personal collection includes works from both emerging artists and notable blue-chip luminaries such as Carrie Mae Weems, Sargent Johnson, Elizabeth Catlett, Kara Walker, Frederick Hayes, Gordon Parks and Hebru Brantley. Newer additions include Raelis Vasquez, Deborah Roberts, John Bankston, Adrian Piper, and Nina Chanel Abney. Both his home and collection are featured regularly through his media presence and the artwork is highlighted intentionally to introduce audiences to new artists and work challenging cultural stereotypes. Paul frequently shares the provenance of The Henderson Art Collection as a validation and critical review of the many emerging artists in the collection.
Beyond collecting, Mr. Henderson has become both a trusted advisor and advocate for artists and collectors alike, facilitating meaningful connections between artists and their works. His understanding of inclusionary economics and legal intricacies in art allows him to provide invaluable guidance to broader audiences.
In addition to his ongoing presentation and advocacy work, Paul Henderson is a dedicated arts patron. He actively supports artists and culture while serving on the Board of Directors of Warner Music Group's Social Justice Fund charged with managing their $100 million-dollar social justice fund. His unwavering support and advocacy continue to empower artists, enrich cultural institutions, and contribute to the vibrant and diverse art world.
various appearances, talks, and events
At the VIP Private Collector’s Dinner hosted by the Des Moines Art Center, Paul had the opportunity to converse with fellow art collectors and support culturally important interpretations of modern art.
Paul delivered a lecture on the state of the economy and art as an asset for both investors and collectors with respect to the impacts of economic markets on artists of color.
Paul returned as a co-host of the ART for AIDS live auction and fundraiser benefitting the UCSF Alliance Health Project. He worked in collaboration with Sister Roma, Dk Haas, and others to uplift artists and celebrate new art.
Paul participated in MoAD SF’s Emerging Artist Portfolio Reviews, by providing artists with valuable insights and constructive feedback on their work to help artists advance their careers.
FEATURED PRESENTATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ROLES
Paul discusses the world of art and advocacy on the UBS Future of Wealth Podcast with Melinda Hightower. Paul believes that art has the power to celebrate cultures and has long served as a driving force for equity and change. Paul speaks here about his passion for social justice and collecting art.
PHILANTHROPY | Board Member Warner Music Group (Social Justice Fund), Studio Museum of Harlem
CURATOR | MoAD Emerging Artist Program Portfolio Reviews and artist support
SPEAKER | Fog Design, Art Basel, Frieze, MSNBC
WRITER | Journal of African American Art, Luxury Trends Magazine, Centre de la Photographie de Mougins, Politico
Listen to the podcast episode here.
Art Affiliations & Partners
The Henderson ART COLLECTION
“My collection of authenticity and hypervisibility feels like a collection of love letters to my past, present, and future selves. The works are filled with a spectrum of diverse confidence and beauty, challenging stereotypes and affirming aspects of identity for my community. “
- Paul Henderson
Paul Henderson as Cohart’s New Collector
