"Art has the power to provoke, heal, and inspire," says Los Angeles-based collector Ann Soh Woods, "and I am committed to championing voices that push boundaries and spark meaningful conversations."
The Kikori Whiskey founder's love of art was first sparked growing up in Chicago, where her parents regularly toted her and her siblings along to the Art Institute. In LA, Soh Woods's home doubles as a dynamic art space where visitors are treated to works by the likes of Andrea Bowers and Haegue Yang, as well as other artists challenging traditional narratives of power and inclusion. Following the devastating wildfires in the city last month, that local arts community is more vital than ever to well-steeped figures like Soh Woods, who also serves on the Hammer Museum's Board of Advisors.
Looking ahead to Frieze Los Angeles, which opens next week, she's getting ready to see her community gathered in full force, along with both international visitors and those from across the country coming to see local talent on display. Before the festivities kick off, Soh Woods caught up with CULTURED to share her experience getting immersed in the city's art scene, which artists she's got an eye on, and what shows travelers should make sure to see while they're traversing LA.
Where does the story of your personal collection begin?
Inside the halls of the Art Institute of Chicago, where my immigrant parents sought to expose their children to art and music. Like many children of Asian immigrants, we were expected to become lawyers, doctors, or—in our case—dentists. Pursuing a career as an artist or musician was not exactly encouraged, but discovering, appreciating, and admiring art was something my parents valued and instilled in us.
My father would often bring back works of art from his travels—pieces that captured a moment, a place, an experience. I’ve always loved the idea of art as a vessel, preserving memories and transporting us through time.
As my own collection grew, I realized art isn’t just about beauty or nostalgia—it can challenge histories, spark thought-provoking questions, and make us pause and reflect. It’s not just something to admire; it’s something to engage with, wrestle with, and allow to reshape the way we see the world.
How would you describe the LA art scene? How have you seen the community come together recently?
Communitarian values rooted in care and mutual support are foundational to the LA arts community, and they are the reason why art has become a cornerstone for my life here in LA. Artists, curators, gallerists, and other patrons and collectors are dear friends, and Gyopo, where I am honored to serve on the board, is my Korean-American family.
Hence, it was not surprising but no less moving to see this community rally together to support artists and art workers affected by the devastating fires that ravaged our beloved city. From the swift creation of the LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund by major arts organizations to the generosity of online fundraisers and artists donating proceeds from their work, the response has been nothing short of inspiring. This is a city bound by compassion, resilience, and hope. LA is open, thriving with so many great shows—come experience for yourself!
What is the first piece you ever bought?
Kachina—or Katsina—dolls from the Hopi reservation were among my earliest purchases. My sister was working on an Indian reservation when I had the chance to visit and meet the artists who were meticulously hand-carving, painting, and embellishing these figures into the likeness of revered spirits. It was inspiring to watch them bring these sacred forms to life and difficult to choose which dolls to bring home.
Meanwhile, my first contemporary art acquisition was the purchase of a print by Janis Provisor from the renowned Crown Point Press, purchased about 25 years ago. I had just moved into my first house and wanted to transform it into a home—art has the power to do exactly that!
Which work in your home provokes the most conversation from visitors?
Haegue Yang's kinetic sculpture made of small bells arranged in a triangular form. It hangs near the entrance of my home. Guests are often surprised when invited to touch and spin the work, setting the bells in a reverberating symphony. It serves as a welcoming ritual of sorts in my home. Kids are especially delighted to "play" with the work.
How has the local art scene influenced your collection?
Serving on the board of advisors at the Hammer Museum has been an absolute privilege, and I’m continually inspired by their "Made in L.A." biennial. This incredible galvanizing exhibition showcases to the world the depth and diversity of talent, creativity, and storytelling that thrive in our city.
Supporting local artists isn’t just a passion—it’s a source of immense joy and pride. There’s nothing more fulfilling than championing the vibrant voices that make LA an artistic powerhouse!
Which artist are you currently most excited about and why?
There are so many! The latest additions to my home are works by the Malaysian artist Yee I-Lann. I've loved following her journey and seeing her work exhibited around the world—from Venice to Seoul to Berkeley. Her practice is expansive, spanning film, weaving, and photography, often created in collaboration with her community.
Yee I-Lann’s work powerfully explores themes of inclusion and representation, incisively interrogating the legacy of colonialism and contemporary forms of neocolonialism. Her ability to weave—sometimes quite literally—myriad narratives into visually and conceptually engaging pieces makes her work compelling and thought-provoking.
What factors do you consider when expanding your collection?
My journey has evolved over the years, but I am consistently drawn to artists who challenge dominant narratives, question inherited systems, and explore diverse perspectives, often pushing me beyond my comfort zone. I am particularly engaged with diasporic artists whose work reflects complex histories, identities, and cultural shifts. Now more than ever, I believe in supporting art and artists who not only create but also respond to the world around us—our environment, culture, and shared anxieties.
What are the must-see shows this month?
Alice Coltrane, "Monument Eternal" at the Hammer Museum. Julian Abraham “Togar” and Anna Sew Hoy at Commonwealth and Council. "Sensing the Future: Experiments in Art and Technology (E.A.T.)" at the Getty. I am also looking forward to seeing Kelly Akashi at Lisson, Tau Lewis at David Zwirner, and Nina Chanel Abney and Tschabalala Self at Jeffrey Deitch. "One Hundred Percent," a benefit exhibition by and for artists impacted by the fires, curated by [Hammer Museum] Interim Chief Curator Aram Moshayedi.
What piece of advice would you give someone who wants to get into collecting?
Starting your art collection is like embarking on a thrilling and rewarding journey. No degree or prerequisites required—just curiosity and a willingness to dive in! Being an enthusiast is the perfect first step. Visit galleries, museums, and art fairs, ask questions, and let yourself tumble down the inevitable rabbit holes of discovery. You don’t need an art advisor to begin; half the fun is building your own circle—fellow enthusiasts, curators, artists, gallerists, and even your family (kids too!). Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and before you know it, you'll be confidently collecting pieces that bring you joy.
