How to Start Your First Art Collection
Been circling the idea of starting an art collection but don’t know where to land? Relax. We’ve got you. The high-stakes, velvet-rope gallery scene might feel like a shark tank, but that’s not where you need to start. We’re here to steer you toward a smarter, cooler, and far more approachable way to collect—one that doesn’t require a trust fund or an art history degree. Here are five ways to set yourself up for a successful first purchase, and a roadmap for future collections:
1. Set a Budget: The Art of Financial Acrobatics
Before you start splurging like a kid in a candy store, let's talk numbers. Think of your art budget as the tightrope in your financial circus—too tight, and there's no fun; too loose, and you're plummeting into debt. Decide on an amount that won't have you living on instant noodles for the next six months. Remember, quality trumps quantity. It's better to own a few standout pieces than a hoard of 'meh' canvases.
2. Determine Your Objective: Passion or Profit?
Are you here to make money or to build a collection that actually moves you? If you’re playing the long game for resale value, focus on mid-career and established artists with upward momentum. But if you’re collecting for love, buy what stops you in your tracks—whether it’s a moody oil painting or a neon-splattered sculpture of a pigeon wearing kinky boots (yes, this exists). The best collections aren’t just valuable; they tell a story.
Art Fairs Are a Gateway Drug
Make it a habit to explore your local art fairs a few times a year—you’ll discover new artists, refine your personal style, and broaden your perspective along the way.
3. Hit the Local Scene: Galleries, Fairs, and Street Art
Skip the soulless big-box decor stores and get your hands on something real. Local galleries, underground art fairs, pop-ups, and even street art walks are where you’ll find the next big thing before they hit the mainstream. Bonus: Buying local means you might actually meet the artist, have the opportunity to learn about their work, and score an original piece for way less than a blue-chip gallery or auction price. A great place to start is Superfine Art Fair, which has a presence in San Francisco, Washington DC and New York. Some other good options are Startup Art Fair SF, Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival, and Spring Break Art Show LA, for starters.
4. Explore Different Mediums: Beyond the Paintbrush
Art isn't confined to paintings. Sculptures, art glass, limited edition prints, and photography can add depth and intrigue to your collection. Don't shy away from exploring various mediums; you might discover a penchant for abstract metal sculptures or black-and-white urban photography.
Consider Different Mediums
Much like a good investment portfolio, your collection needs diversification. When you add work that goes beyond wall art, you create texture and visual interest in your space that conveys depth and soul.
5. Trust Your Instincts: Love at First Sight
At the end of the day, art is personal. If a piece grabs you by the feels and doesn't let go, that's your cue. Your collection should be a reflection of your unique taste and personality. So, embrace the weird, the edgy, and the unconventional. After all, normal is overrated.
Embarking on your art collection journey is like stepping into a vibrant, unpredictable adventure. Stay curious, be bold, and most importantly, have fun curating a collection that's unapologetically you.
Need a little hand-holding? Schedule a free consultation to get you started.