5 Tips for Buying Art for New Collectors

As a new art collector, it can be a little overwhelming trying to navigate your way in the art world. Collecting art is a highly rewarding and satisfying endeavor, but it’s not without it’s challenges, especially for newcomers. Knowing how to go about the process will help you get started on the right foot. And once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to take your collecting to the next level.

So in this week’s blog, we’re going to talk about a few tips that any new art collector can use. The works shown throughout the blog are examples of different mediums, famous and emerging artists and varied prices. I can help you with your collection at all levels. If you’re seriously thinking about taking up collecting art, give this guide a read!

tom-wesselmann-drawing-for-bedroom-painting-14

Tom Wesselmann – Drawing for Bedroom Painting 14

5 Tips for Buying Art for New Collectors

Brush up on your art knowledge.

If your last formal encounter with the art world was in a college art history class, it’s a good idea to brush up on your art knowledge. Of course you’ll probably have preferences as to what you like and what you don’t like, but it’s equally important to be able to differentiate between good art and bad art. If you’re going to invest in a work of art, you want to get your money’s worth, which means investing your time in research.

Don’t make it about the money.

At the same time, it’s important not to make collecting art about making money. The satisfaction of owning a great work of art is where the reward in collecting truly lies.

peter-max-double-profiles

Peter Max – Double Profiles
Acrylic on Canvas

Recognize that the lowest price is not necessarily the best price.

You don’t have to spend a lot to get a great work, but you also won’t find great works for a rock bottom price. A good question to ask yourself is, would you rather have one great work, or five average ones? In the long term, most collectors are more satisfied with the former.

james-gill-marilyn-with-pearl-earring-reflected

James Gill – Marilyn with Pearl Earring, Reflected

Buy early.

If you find an artist you like who also is in the early stages of their career, don’t hesitate to buy their work now. Prices will increase along with their career trajectory, which is why it’s smart to buy early.

alexandra-nechita-love-blends-love-separates

Alexandra Nechita – Love Blends, Love Separates Stone Lithograph

Make contacts in the art world.

If you’re starting as an outsider to the art world, it’s smart to make contacts who have experience in the field. A good place to start is with your local dealer. Local dealers want to talk to you and will be happy to introduce you to the art world. With a dealer, you can have a dialogue that will give you insights into art from an insider’s perspective, and allow you to develop your interests further.

joan-zaslow-seated-torso-study

Joan Zaslow – Seated Torso Study

Barnett Fine Art

As a local art dealer in New Orleans I can help you build your collection. We’ll start with your interests and price range and go from there to help you find the ideal work. I can also help you find specific works and introduce you to emerging artists.

Please contact Patty Barnett at 504.524.2992

Follow Barnett Fine Art on Facebook and Twitter.

picasso-accord-entre-les-guerriers-de-sparta-et-d-athens

Picasso — Accord Entre Les Guerriers de Sparta et d’ Athens

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