Monday 13 January 2014

3 Tips on Starting an Art Collection

Fused glass clock, framed fine art print, glass artwork, designer vases, 
original mini paintings, ceramic hanging decoration & animal sculptures

You've decided it’s time to start your own art collection and you don’t know where to begin. Whether you want to do it as a hobby, you want to enhance your interior with art or you consider it an investment, the art world could be overwhelming sometimes. There are so many galleries, gift shops, art fairs and art exhibitions out there as well as the online art world, all delivering such a great variety. Here are a few tips to consider before embarking on this journey.


1.Don’t rush

If you are new to what is going on in the art scene locally and nationally, don’t rush and buy the first artwork (painting, sculpture, pottery, fused glass, etc) you see and like. Next week you might see one that you like even more and you may regret your rushed decision. Granted, you can buy that one too and you already have a mini collection, but if you are not 100% sure what you are after, it is better to wait a few months or so and familiarise yourself with the art scene. Visit local galleries and fairs, go to exhibitions and open studio events and after a few visits, you'll have a better idea of what you like and the names of a few artists in your area.

2. Go with what you like

When you are a first-time buyer, it is always a good idea to go with what you like. No matter that you prefer the work of an established and popular artist or of an up and coming one, an artwork you really like will not only enhance your interior but your mood too. It can also attract other admirers and it will give a personal touch to your home décor. There is a saying among artists that an artwork doesn't have to match the couch, yet I can only add that if it does, it is a bonus. B&Bs, hotels and office premises buy art to decorate the rooms, so why not you too?


3. Subscribe to newsletters

It is always a good idea to subscribe to newsletters from either brick and mortar galleries or online galleries or both. This way you will have direct access to what’s new in the art scene in your area, what new artist joined a website or has an upcoming exhibition, you get invitations to previews so you’ll have the chance to meet the artists in person and you can also get recommendations on what’s on trend at the moment, popular artists to invest in or promising emerging artists. 

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No matter that you want to collect art for aesthetic or investment reasons (in the financial world an artwork is considered an asset), collecting art could be a rewarding activity. You'll support artists and their artwork, you'll get access to a creative world and, who knows, you may even start a #collectingart trend among your friends.

©Teodora Totorean – text and image

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