Collecting Original Art: Interview with Sergio Herrera (Spain)

Sergio Herrera was one of TGR’s first clients. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned from him over the years, it’s that his passion for comics knows no bounds, just as his admiration for Pepe Larraz goes far beyond the purely artistic.

Today, he shares some very personal reflections on his early days in the hobby and his collection of original art.

---

How did you get started in art collecting?

I began in 2019 at Heroes Comic Con. That’s where I acquired my first drawing: a Spider-Man by Marc Bagley, a true legend of the character. That same year I also got a Batman by Jorge Jiménez, just as he was starting on the series, and an illustration of Hester Beck by Tyler Crook from Harrow County. However, I feel I started late, because shortly afterward the pandemic hit, and comic conventions in Madrid and Barcelona lost momentum and the presence of international artists.

What was the first piece you acquired?

A Spider-Man by Marc Bagley. He was selling it for 100 euros, but I only had 90 and there was no ATM nearby. Even so, he agreed to sell it to me for that price. It was an incredibly kind gesture that I will never forget.

Was there any artist, story, or moment that sparked your passion for comic art?

Pepe Larraz was an absolute revelation for me: his style, his characters, and his action scenes spoke directly to my heart. In addition, during years marked by bullying, comics were a fundamental refuge for me. Artists like John Romita Jr., Tim Sale, Olivier Coipel, Humberto Ramos, David Finch, or Todd McFarlane were true emotional lifelines.

What is your favorite piece of comic art in your collection?

It’s difficult to choose just one, because many of them have a personal story behind them. One that stands out in particular is my Cyclops remarque by Pepe Larraz in the House of X Artist Edition, which I finally obtained in 2023 after years of longing for it. Alongside it, I treasure works by artists such as Mikel Janín, Olivier Coipel, Jim Lee, Tim Sale, Jorge Fornés, Álvaro Martínez Bueno, John Romita Jr., Dave Gibbons, Frank Miller, and Todd McFarlane, as well as several historic original pages.

Is there any piece with a special story behind it?

My Spider-Man by Tim Sale is the most special one. During the pandemic I managed to contact him by email, and after several conversations, he personally sent me a drawing from his home. Shortly afterward, he passed away, which made that gesture even more meaningful and emotional. That piece is framed and hangs above my door to remember him every day.

My Watchmen collection by Jorge Fornés also holds enormous meaning for me, as do the experiences I’ve had with artists like John Romita Jr. or Mikel Janín, who showed tremendous humanity and warmth.

What role do galleries play in the evolution of your collection?

Galleries are a source of admiration and inspiration. Even so, with patience, effort, and perseverance, I’ve managed to build a collection that fills me with pride, happiness, and the feeling of having fulfilled many personal dreams.

What leads you to choose some works and not others?

My dreams, the beauty of the art, and the artists I admire. Also the characters and stories I’ve been reading since I was 12 years old and that I continue to reread every year.

What do you look at first when evaluating a new piece?

Not just the action. I appreciate landscapes, architecture, atmospheres, and intimate moments. I value the artistic and emotional background of a work. In the end, it’s the visual and emotional impact—like love at first sight—that determines my choice.

Has your taste changed over time?

Not substantially, although in recent years I’ve discovered new talents who have deeply impressed me. Artists like Tim Sale, Olivier Coipel, David Finch, John Romita Jr., or Pepe Larraz remain essential to me.

What is your favorite piece from our gallery?

I haven’t yet been able to visit the gallery, although I would love to. I’m sure I’ll be especially impressed by the works of Pepe Larraz and by the art, landscapes, and architecture of Álvaro Martínez Bueno.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start collecting art?

Patience, perseverance, and effort. Also respect and understanding toward artists, their schedules, and their personal lives. Achieving dreams requires sacrifice, but it’s worth it.