Have you ever wanted an art collection? Is there something holding you back, like budget or just not knowing where to begin? My friend, I’m happy to share that if you want to collect art, you can, and you don’t need a Monet or Matisse to call it a “collection.”
Today, I’m giving you some simple steps for finding art that feels authentic, excites you, and maybe even (dare I say it?) …helps you live vibrantly!
Art adds the perfect touch of movement, color and whimsy in this coastal entry
7 Steps to an Art Collection You’ll Love
When it comes to designing your home, art is incredibly versatile. It can add lively movement or stillness to a space. It can splash in some color, harmonize a room’s palette, and even create a whole new vibe of its own.
But the best part? What you like is 100% your decision.
Here’s how to start an art collection you love on any budget. Yes, any.
1. Start with a budget
Notice that I said “any” budget, not “no” budget. 😉 It’s important to start with your desired investment, regardless of what that number is.
If you don’t think you have as much to spend now as you might eventually want to, that’s no reason not to get started. You can easily start assembling smaller pieces that you love and that won’t break the bank. (And I have a great budget-savvy tip for you in #8!)
2. Follow your intuition
Art is personal, and it takes some browsing to discover what you really like and want to have around for the long-haul. I suggest going to galleries or museums to see what draws you in most. You’ll get a sense of what you like and what you don’t like — both of which will help you make good decisions.
3. Start slowly and small
It’s okay to start small. Small art pieces are more affordable than larger ones and therefore better at easing you into the practice of collecting. You can also feel comfortable taking your purchases slowly, too. It’s called an art collection; not an art splurge. 😉
4. Go to the source
When you buy original art, you aren’t just investing in the art — you’re investing in the person. Go to art festivals or open studio events, where artists showcase what they’ve been working on.
These events are a great option for someone new to buying art; it’s an accessible and intimidation-free way to learn about art and speak directly with the artists. Not to mention there’s almost always some vino to savor.
The Affordable Art Fair is one such event, and just a few hours away in NYC. The fair focuses on contemporary art from over 400 artists, starting at $100. Go grab a glass and start exploring!
5. Discover a new artist
The cost of art is largely based on the demand for an artist. When they start out, their paintings are more affordable. When the market has a demand for their work, the value increases.
That’s why it could be beneficial to start with art from a new or up-and-coming artist. Though you should always buy art based on how it makes you feel, it’s an investment that could potentially have an upside in the future. And you get the excitement of supporting them from the beginning of their journey!
6. Get to know an artist personally
Once you’ve found an artist whose work you love, connect with them at gallery openings or online. I know it’s a wild idea, but remember — artists are people, too, and love support just like you and I. Plus, the human connection will make you proud of your art purchase.
7. Budget for art regularly
If collecting art is important to you, budget for it quarterly, bi-annually, or even annually, as works for you. Whether it’s a few hundred dollars per year or a few thousand, you’ll have the funds to intentionally purchase art and the freedom to do so at your own pace.
Some artists and gallery owners also allow for payment plans. If you fall n love with an original piece (and don’t want anyone else to have it), they may allow you to spread your payment out over time.
8. Start to display your art collection
How could I give you steps for collecting art without giving you some advice for hanging those beauties? First, it’s perfectly fine to place a piece of art on its own, just make sure the scale of the piece is appropriate to the wall. (Most people place art that is both too small and too high on a wall.)
If you want to create a gallery wall and you can’t afford to buy all the art at once, my best advice is to buy one or two pieces of original art that you love and fill in the gallery with simple inexpensive framed prints. Over time, as your budget expands and you find art you love, you can slowly replace them with originals you’re proud of.
Well, those tips should get you successfully started. Just remember to give yourself the freedom to be bold and courageous, and leave the rest to your art intuition — if you love it, you love it, and that can only be right.
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