Tips on How to Start an Art Collection
One of the main things that I love about selling art is connecting on a personal level with you, my collectors. There are many reasons why buying art can feel intimidating, but by following a few guidelines - not only will the process be easier, you’ll end up having a lot of fun.
Buy What you LOVE!
Trust your own taste in art like you do with other personal preferences. This doesn’t mean you have to know anything in advance, but you can give yourself more credit in what you already know. It’s true that you really will know it’s for you when you see it. Try comparing it to your literal taste: you know what foods you love to eat, what you are allergic to, and you may still keep an open mind when trying new things. Your taste in art is as unique and idiosyncratic as you, trust it.
Spend time browsing, looking, and collecting visual ideas to get a sense of the kind of art that speaks to you. Don’t feel pressured by any time frame or what to have to like whatever is popular. Instead, take notes. Collect snapshots of the art you’re looking at, make an album on your phone, or a notebook to help identify connections. Can you recognize what you are responding to? Don’t worry about having to explain any of it, this is an exercise in honing in on what you like.
Have a theme. By choosing a subject matter, landscapes from a particular region, portraits in a unified era, pose or look- whatever you decide to narrow your focus on will not only help you feel less paralyzed, you’ll feel more free with knowing what you are choosing. What begins as an overwhelming project quickly becomes about you having a discerning eye. Having a theme based on something personal to you isn’t just a strategy, it also givse your art collection even more meaning.
When visiting galleries, there is no wrong questions you can ask - and if you are dismissed or not treated with the care and respect - it’s better to move on. There are many many other galleries out there that will honor you as a collector.
Remember that art is one of life’s pleasures, and here to bring us joy. It’s not meant to be like anything else! It’s not a hobby, it’s not work. Collecting art is not just a luxury for a set few. It can even become your new passion. The sole purpose of collecting art (in my opinion) is about making you happy. How amazing is that?
Remember to connect with artists. See studios if they are open for visits, ask questions, attend events, talks and shows. I understand the courage it sometimes takes to reach out and I’ve always found it to be a rewarding experience.
