Some people collect shoes, others collect art. Building an art collection is a great way to show off your personal taste while adding color, personality, and style to your home. Art collecting is an exciting journey that allows you to support artists while engaging in your own creativity. For novice art collectors, starting a collection can be overwhelming. To help navigate you through this process, here is a list of essentials that every novice art collector should know when building a robust art collection.

Define Your Style

Before diving right in, take time to explore different art styles, artists, and mediums. Visit art galleries, exhibitions, and online platforms like Artsy to gain exposure. These experiences will help you develop your artistic preferences and identify the type of art that inspires and resonates with you. Understanding your artistic preferences and interest will help you form the foundation of your art collection.

Research, Research, Research

The more you research, the better you’ll become as an art collector. Take the time to research different artists, market trends, and art movements. Get to know the cultural and historical context of the pieces that inspire you. Learn about the artist’s background, technique, and contributions to the art world. Research and educating yourself can help you make informed decisions about the authenticity and value of pieces.

Set a Budget and Plan Accordingly

Building a robust art collection can take decades. It’s essential to establish a budget early on that aligns with your financial capabilities. Determine a spending limit for each work that includes expenses like framing, insurance, and restoration. Creating a budget will help you choose pieces that not only interest you but align with your finances.

Engage With the Art World

Getting out and engaging with people in the art world can significantly help with your collecting experience. Attend auctions, art fairs, and gallery openings to connect with fellow collectors, artists, and experts. Attend artists’ talks and engage in discussions. This will help you better understand the art world and discover emerging artists.

Start With Affordable Pieces

Investing in emerging or lesser-known artists is a great way for novice collectors to build a diverse collection. Look for local art schools and online platforms that showcase affordable pieces by emerging artists and art collectives. This allows you to experiment with various styles and mediums without blowing your budget. As you build confidence and experience as an art collector, you’ll expand your collection to include higher-priced pieces.