Collector’s Guide to Art: How to Start Your Own Collection

We get so many queries on how to go about buying a piece of art. Which artists to look at? Where does one buy from? How can I make sure it’s a good investment? Buying art can be intimidating! But it doesn’t have to be. The Art Insider shares her 5 basic rules to help you start collecting.

Original works by Saubiya Chashmawala from Tarq, Mumbai, Sri Lankan artist Prageeth Rathnayake and a limited edition print by Bernard Hartmann from Yellow Korner, Hongkong .

LOOK, LOOK, LOOK:

Like everything else in life, the more you see and and experience, the better chance you have of knowing what you want. Go to museums, walk into galleries, attend art fairs and biennales, follow hashtags on Instagram such as #indianart #artist #artistsoninstagram. A lot of it may not make sense at first but soon, you will realise that there are certain colours, themes and artists you’re drawn to. I would also recommend attending an art walk in your city where experts take you to galleries and break down works for you


START SMART:

For many people posters or copies of famous artworks are often the first piece they buy. If you’re drawn to a particular famous artwork, sure buy the poster, but understand that it is not a collectors item. Instead, look for lithographs or limited edition prints which though slightly more expensive, hold a far greater value. 


LOOK FOR CLUES:

Follow accounts like @affordableartfairhk and look out for StoryLtd’s affordable art auction. Credible sources like these have already filtered artists for their buyers so you already have a base to start with. Then follow trends. Is a work being sold for higher than their estimated value? Has an artist sold better than expected a few times in a row? This should point you in the right direction. 


SLIP INTO DMs:

Many young artists are now selling at least some pieces through their Instagram accounts. Interact with those you like and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the work, and yes, even the price. If they won’t sell direct, they will refer you to the gallery that handles their work.


DON’T BE AFRAID OF MISTAKES:

Here’s the bottom line. You need to love the piece you buy. Go with your gut!

Shivani Sambhare is an independent arts writer and consultant who likes coffee, historical fiction and anything art deco. Follow her on Instagram at @the.artinsider.