I recently was reading an article about art collectors and art collections and was thinking that this is a great time to start your art collection … with the economy taking a downturn, art prices have reacted the same way making it much easier start an art collection. One thing is for sure, although art sales have slowed, it still remains one of the best ways to invest your money in this unpredictable market. Over the years I have noticed several principles that seem to hold through:
1. You will need to look though your eyes.. You will need to train your eyes….. basically you will need to figure out what you like or don’t like. This happens over time with most art, as is seems to change the more you look at it…and the more you look at it, the more you like it. As as example, how many times have you purchased a picture, poster or piece of art and then that after you get it home and have it for about a month or two you find you don’t like it….. This is your eyes are becoming educated…Your seeing it through your eyes. With quality art, the experience is reversed. You will find yourself loving it more as time passes. You will see new things every time you look at it.
2. Having a collection of original art is an essential addition to any home interior. Original art can add a certain aesthetic beauty to any room. It can balance your space or it can start a lengthy conversation. Whatever the reason, you should start thinking about developing or enhancing your own collection.
3. Although it sounds basic, all the art in your collection needs to be original. Original art refers to art that is created by the artist’s hand and is not reproduced mechanically. Art today consists of a variety of mediums and civewr
4. Collecting art should be a personally satisfying journey.
5. The best place to start is where you’re at. In other words, consider your budget and go from there. Obviously, we would all love to have a Pollack or a DaVinci or a Picasso or Donohue (lol..). But we need to start small and work our way up. There are many opportunities to be found locally for starting a collection. Think of “first fridays”, second Thursdays” shows that most art communities have.
6. There is usually a gallery or two in most communities . Many folks scoff at the idea of finding quality work in these venues but they’ve probably never taken a careful look at what’s offered.
7. Ebay is a virtual, worldwide gallery. With some time investment and common sense assessment of the artists there, it can be a legitimate resource for starting one’s collection.
8. You must decide what to purchase. This always seems to be the most difficult part. I always tell new collectors to follow your heart. Don’t choose artwork based on what you think is trendy or will impress someone else. Choose something that is an expression of your unique tastes. Begin by buying what you are comfortable with. Buy what pleases your eye and spirit.
9. Faculty shows at your nearest university or junior college have work for sale that is of high, professional quality by established artists, some of which are “up and comers” on the big-time gallery scene. The type of work that you may only find in galleries in major cities is available in these shows.
10. Well I left this last but its the most important. You just need to get out and do it! Committing to start an art collection is the hardest thing to do, however it is the most rewarding and also I would add— addicting. so make the committment to get started today.. the time is right.!..
…..and as always if you need help.. I know a great contemporary abstract painter in Las Vegas, Nevada who’s a really, really good buy….LOL!
peace
……james
this is my latest work drying the Studio….it is 0il, aluminum panel, mixed media 36 x 60, it is titled “abstract #61” ..hope you all enjoy… talk to you soon
peace…
…………………….james