So you want to start an art collection ? Here are some tips to find your way in the art market.
The biggest collectors have decades of experience gained in sales rooms and galleries, allowing them to know the art market at their fingertips. They know how to create a collection, regardless of the budget. Follow our advice and start your own art collection.
1. Start your art collection with what you like
The first step to becoming a collector is to have a clear idea of what you like. Visit as many museums, online art sales sites, art fairs and galleries as you can. Determine which subjects, mediums and styles of art you prefer. On our site for instance you will find a large variety of original contemporary artworks of different mediums and sizes. It is a good way to start exploring!
2. Compare the market
To get a fair price and understand what is valuable in the art world, you will need to do some research on the art market. Browse all auction catalogs, gallery sites and art collection books. You can also compare the prices on different e-commerce sites as the prices are in a very transparent way displayed and shown next to the specifications, sizes and description of the art works.
3. Choose in function of your budget
Buying directly from an artist is usually less expensive than if the artwork has already been owned and sold through a gallery. In addition, a high-end gallery may charge more than less established galleries. Other factors such as the rarity of the piece, the provenance of an artwork, the medium used and the career period of the artist in which the piece was created can all affect the price. You can already find an original artwork or a limited edition for a low price. For instance on our site you can find an artwork already as from 60 euros.
4. Inform yourself about the artist
Do you have a heart that makes you feel deeply and deeply vibrated? Ask questions about the artist: what does he or she do, what is his or her artistic approach, what is his or her training, which exhibitions did he or she participate to, which prices or distinction he or she has won …
Emotion is important in front of a work, but to understand the approach of the artist, take the time to look at the other works of the artist, who knows what, who will answer the question. You have different type of works that comes from one artist. On our site, we pay a lot of attention to the background of our artists by dedicating a full page of biography to each artist. When you click on an artist profile, you will find the career works page and the biography of the artist, which will tell you more about his or her background, his or her experience and his or her inspiration.
5. Quality
In art, quality is paramount. Try to focus on works of art that stand out from others. Even if your collection is consistent, you will always have one or two pieces out of the ordinary to make it particularly attractive. If you focus on emerging artists, be sure to acquire the works of the most promising talents. The most exceptional works in your collection will not fail to highlight those of lower quality. The most beautiful collections of art form a whole whose value is much greater than the sum of its individual components. On our site, we have chosen to work with a professional panel of curators who select carefully the quality of the works choice of artists and works on offer.
6. Personal
Buying strategically does not mean you have to leave out your personal taste. If you only give life to a collection based on the choices or recommendations of others, it will lose its authenticity. The most famous collections are those that reflect the taste of their owners. Do not buy only works because you can sell them more expensive, but simply follow your intuition by choosing what you like and prefer. This is how you will create a unique and exceptional collection that really matters. The most famous collections, in addition to counting exceptional works within them, remain faithful to their authors and the guideline they have chosen. To become a true collector, your personal taste and research about the works and the artists will be crucial.
So hopefully this blog will help you to set your first steps as collector!
Do you need advice from an experience art lover based in Brussels?
Contact us : Our gallery manager Dominique Fostier is there for advice and more information about the works figuring in our art collection.