Wednesday 30th January 2019

How to Start Your Collection

So you’re interested in buying art, but where do you start?

First, just start actively looking at art on a regular basis! Immersing yourself in different styles of work across various venues helps train your eye and direct your personal collecting strategy. Some great resources to get started are local galleries and artists’ open studios. If you’re near a city or a creative hub, often there will be a night weekly, monthly, or quarterly when the arts community organizes openings. When I lived in Philadelphia, this was the “First Friday” of each month and you could hit lots of galleries and studios at once to get a sense of what you like and dislike.

If you’re more remote, or more into scrolling from the comfort of your own home, I like to suggest browsing artforum.com, artsy.net, contemporaryartdaily.com, and following #contemporaryart on Instagram. Instagram has become an incredible platform for artists and collectors alike, because you can delve into deeper hashtagged categories and all of the sudden you realize you’re particularly drawn to #swedishabstractpainters... who would have known?

When taking in the art you come across, ask yourself a few questions:

1. What jumps out to me and why? Do I like the subject matter, the artist’s process, the color palette?

2. What am I comfortable spending on an artwork I love? Maybe an original painting is outside your budget, but you could look into limited edition prints by the artist that would be within reach.

3. And finally - this one is more abstract but just as important - what would the ramifications of buying this artwork be? Hopefully it would enrich your space and personal happiness. It would definitely behoove the artist and/or gallery you’re supporting. And it could hopefully continue to foster a love of collecting art in you and your family.

It can feel tricky communicating with an artist or gallery to learn more about available works and to initiate a transaction. In an ideal world, an open and honest conversation is the best way to go. Being up front about your interests, intentions and timeline are helpful in building a relationship with an artist or gallery. Often we forget that on top of the price of an artwork, we have to consider the cost of packing and shipping (and sometimes installation) which can add up, particularly with a heavy or delicate piece.

Keep in mind that the visual research part to hone your aesthetic as well as the negotiation process is something I offer as part of my services, which makes the adventure of collecting a little less daunting and more fun for you.

In essence, to get started collecting, you just have to start actively looking! Whether in person, in print, or online, expanding your “visual library” will get your creative wheels turning and the process of collecting art in motion.

I'm always happy to talk collection strategies and answer any questions you may have, so drop me a message: hello@jillian-art.com

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