Episode 43: The Psychology of a Collector with Dr. Shirley Mueller, Collector of Chinese Export Porcelain & Author

Jewelry Journey Podcast

Shirley Mueller is an internationally known collector and scholar of Chinese export porcelain who has written numerous articles on the subject. She has a background in neuroscience and examines different behavioral traits that characterize collectors.

In her recent book, Inside the Head of a Collector: Neuropsychological Forces at Play, Shirley introduces neuro and behavioral economics for collectors and art professionals to help them understand their own decision making. She also brings a unique collector’s perspective by providing insights for art dealers, collectors and museum professionals.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Shirley’s definition of what makes a collector.
• The psychology behind collecting art and jewelry, and why the social aspect of collecting is important.
• An overview of Shirley’s book, which examines: pleasure and pain, enhancing pleasure through understanding ourselves and collector experiences.
• Why collecting will always persist and remain relevant.

Additional resources:

• Website
• Indiana University Academia
• Book: Inside a Collector’s Head: Neuropsychological Forces at Play
• Amazon Store
• LinkedIn
• Twitter