How to Get Started as an Art Collector

An art collector's journey requires a similar level of devotion to that of an artist. Yet individual taste defines most of the journey. A potential art collector has to determine whether the collection would comprise digital art, physical art, or both.

Generally, a potential art collector ought to attend art fairs, visit galleries and museums and develop knowledge of the art market. Art fairs can be likened to movie festivals; only they are more diverse. Art fairs are melting pots of the different perspectives of independent artists, art galleries, and curators. There is little need to buy much art at your first art fairs, if at all. You can explore available art and understand more of what appeals to you; network with a few art dealers ahead of future dealings.

Further, a potential art collector should learn how the art market works to get the best deals. Art galleries and museums have curators you can speak with for more insight. You could also network with other art collectors and enthusiasts, especially during exhibitions. Potential art collectors can also learn more about the market by conducting online research, especially on digital art. Acquiring fundamental knowledge of the art market saves time and cost.

Potential art collectors must also prepare a budget and a purchase strategy. Works of art come at a high price. An art collector must make a plan on how to effectively acquire art and dispose of it, as art is capable of increasing in value. You will most likely not dispose of any art as a new collector, but you must formulate a strategy. An art budget is easier to adhere to when limited to a single artist or a few artists.

A milestone for any art collector lies in the first purchase. However, experts advise playing safe with your first purchase. One way to play safe is to determine the purpose for which the piece of art is being purchased. Art is typically brandished in homes and corporate buildings. Wherever a purchaser displays art, it should not feel out of place. Another way to play safe is to focus on less expensive artwork mediums. Prints are a popular option for potential collectors, and they serve as an ideal starting point.

Maintenance is another focal aspect of the art collection journey, especially with physical art. As a new art collector, you should ensure that professionals periodically examine your art pieces. You should also keep records of maintenance sessions for easy tracking. You can conduct a simple examination of your prints by looking out for worms, dust, and insects. Paintings demand more care due to the need to ensure long-term value. This is the primary reason new art collectors should develop the habit of wearing white gloves before examining paintings.

It would help if you hung your prints and paintings where infants and pets cannot reach. You should also avoid using water and chemicals to wipe off dust and soot from your pieces. All you need is a soft brush. As you begin to acquire more art pieces, do well to space them adequately.

There is no end to evolution, and the art collection journey is no different. You should be open to acquiring new tastes and letting go of old ones. You should also be open to calculated risks.