If you are trying to get started as an art collector, you may feel there is a lot of uncertainty to navigate. You may see other successful people and wonder if you can reach that yourself. But know that no matter who you admire in the art world, they had to start somewhere, just like you do. Investing in preparation, learning, and development can help you build your art collection efficiently.
Begin By Establishing Your Budget
It is critical to establish a budget when getting started. Consider the things that affect your art’s price. It might not be as expensive to purchase from the artist, compared to purchasing it from someone who has already owned it. The person who has already owned the piece may want to make a bit of profit from it. Another thing to keep in mind is that high-end galleries might charge more than one that hasn’t been around for as long.
Consider the rarity of the piece, the medium used to create it, and when it was created during the artist’s career. These things can all have a big impact on how much you pay. You might need to pay for framing, shipping, or a premium on an auction piece. These things can all start to add up, and you may find you are not able to purchase as many pieces as you would have liked. The good news is that personal loans can be a great way of expanding your budget. They can allow you to obtain the pieces you need to build up your collection.
Build Relationships
Consider building relationships with others, as it can pay off when it comes to the art world. Having relationships with galleries and other curators can help you learn about emerging trends and artists. Supporting the artist is another way of building important relationships. It is a process to become a collector, and being a patron can speed this process up a bit. If you can, consider donating. By doing so, you open up chances to interact with patrons and curators.
Another type of relationship you may want to curate is with an art advisor. They can help you expand your knowledge and give you industry information. Take some time to understand how their fee structure works, as this can impact the one you are able to obtain. Factor this into your existing budget, as you may pay a flat fee or a commission. Especially if you are trying to turn a creative hobby into a career by buying and selling art for potential profit, professional guidance might be a good idea.
Assess Each Piece
It is important to get a piece that you love, but you also need to inspect each piece before purchasing it. First, you should try to see if you can view each piece in person. This is especially important if you have found it on an online listing. You should also try to learn as much as you can about the individual that created it. Look into their prior accomplishments and their reputation. Speak with a trusted dealer to make sure you are getting a good price. Then ask yourself if it will fit with the rest of your collection.
